Take time to slow down and reduce excessive consumption by applying the ‘Buyerarchy of Needs’ in your day-to-day living.

The Buyerarchy of Needs was illustrated by Sarah Lazarovic, a Canadian designer with background in economics and sustainability. The newly imagined pyramid, derived from Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, depicts different ways on how people can slow down with their consumption. Buying was placed at the top-level in order to show that this need should only be fulfilled when you’ve exhausted all options underneath it.

1. Use what you have
Take a long hard look in your closet and at your kitchen cabinet. It pays to be organized with your clothes, accessories, kitchen utensils, home supplies and other tools so you can easily spot the necessary items you need. This is the goal of the first step – to not look anywhere beyond your cabinet. We increase the value of our purchased items whenever we exploit them and use them as often as we can.

2. Borrow
That item you’ve been eyeing from a friend or a family member, you may borrow after they have worn or used at least twice. With borrowing come unspoken rules such as stating date of return and purpose of borrowing, taking charge of the laundry for clothes and cleaning for other items, and returning in proper condition. Any lender would appreciate a guarantee that her beloved piece is in good hands.

3. Swap
Sometimes when you feel like using the (borrowed) item more than once, you might want to consider swapping. Take out an item of equal value. This increases the chances of having your swap request granted. In addition, there are events that encourage community sharing by bringing items and swapping with guests you can participate in. Follow groups such as The Good Trade PH, Muni Community, and Fashion Revolution Philippines for more information regarding events that fall under this category.

4. Thrift
Contrary to popular belief, not all secondhand items from thrift shops are fake, torn, and have funky smell. You just have to be meticulous on your selection of stores before you take the plunge. If we can purchase from thrift or vintage shops abroad, why can’t we do the same here? We are in a mission to fight the throwaway culture. Thrift stores contribute to circular economy by extending the life cycle of clothing, footwear, and other accessories. We can do our part by spending our hard-earned money from these sources.

5. Make
Harness your creativity and make something out of what already exists. Mending and refurbishing are some of the ways you can give new life to your old clothes and furniture pieces at home. Moreover, you can also make new ones based on your design preferences and choice of fabric or materials. If you’re not the type who’s good at constructing, there’s no harm in seeking help from your designer friends and tailors or seamstresses who live just few steps away from your house.

6. Shop
Now this is the final option. Reflect on the possible choices to be made before you arrive at buying. This is the stage wherein you ask yourself “Do I really need this?”, “Do I see myself rewearing or reusing this?”, “Is this sustainable and ethically made?”, and “Is this worth my investment?” Assess whether the decision of buying a piece of item 1) stems from a want or a need, 2) reflects your style, 3) takes into account record of longevity and usage of eco-friendly materials, and 4) allows quality to measure up with quantity – the price you’re expected to pay. Keep in mind that we are investing only for the long haul.

The goal of The Buyerarchy of Needs is to lessen cases of impulsive buying by encouraging consumers to go through a step-by-step process of deliberation, to prioritize and set aside unnecessary items, and to live simply while making the most out of what truly matters.


*Submitted to MEGA Magazine