It seems to me, that the best way to save our environment and adhere to a more natural and sustaining lifestyle would be to end consumerism (to an extent). So, by promoting even “natural” home goods, you are still promoting a consumerist society that still wastes.

Good point! I recently was asked to teach a class called “Becoming an Eco-Shopper” by a local organization, and I must admit, the title seemed like an oxymoron to me. I even joked with staff here that I could cut the class down to five minutes by simply advising people to buy less stuff.

Our product selection policies, which have been pretty much the same since Linden Hills Co-op opened in 1976, try to guide our buyers (and ultimately our shoppers) towards making purchasing choices that are healthier for the environment and for people. So we hope we’re not promoting unthinking, planet-destroying consumerism at Natural Home OR the co-op.

One of my favorite customer comments about Linden Hills Natural Home is from a wonderful woman who is the director at a local nature center. The first time she came in and looked around, she said, “You know, I hate buying stuff; people have too much stuff already. But if you HAVE to buy something, you should get it here.”

Personally, I appreciate websites like Center for a New American Dream, and the movement towards greater simplicity in people’s lives. I hope more people will eventually understand that rampant consumerism is just not a sustainable or fulfilling way to live.

Jeanne, Member Services Manager