Wednesday 22 October 2008

Ethical Shopping

I just dropped down to the local supermarket to grab a few things with Carolyn, and while we were there we noticed how much effort it takes to find out where some products actually come from. On top of that, how can we be confident that companies that we support with our purchase are ethically responsible?

A bit of searching on the 'net when I got back has turned up this little beauty: "The Guide to Ethical Supermarket Shopping" - an Australian publication which is a simple pocket-sized guide to products with icons showing their ethical status and whether or not the company is Australian owned.

It describes the system that has been used to determine the status of each company, and features more detailed information on some larger companies with explanations for their ranking. It would be nice to have a way of signalling Aussie produce as well as company ownership, but I think this guide is a ripper!

To check it out, visit http://www.ethical.org.au/. You can download the guide or order the booklet.

Being aware and responsible in our shopping is one thing we can all do to make a significant difference! If you are a Christian, you will recognise that "your" money is actually God's, and you are to steward it wisely & ethically. Maybe this guide can help us do that.

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