The depletion of natural resources and raw materials, climate change, war and the decline of skilled labor in many industries and occupations will have a significant impact on production, distribution and consumption going forward. In the U.S., this has been readily apparent for some time now. Those of us who have embraced minimalist lifestyles will fare much better than people who are more materialistic.
I've had issues with clothing for years now. I can't stand cheap clothing but the high-dollar items are ridiculous right now. I tried to buy a sweater a couple weeks ago from a higher-end department store — the price was $450. A sweater. Nothing fancy. I try buying a yucky sweater from JC Penny's and it lasts maybe three or four wears and starts looking raggedy.
A pair of good sweat pants is going for $60 and up... I'm starting to understand why people are staying in their pajamas to shop at Walmart and the grocery store... well, maybe not understand but definitely relating to it.
Very good article! There is no "up" side to cheap goods. In the US it has created a landfill economy. Every item you buy will wind up in the rubbish bin much sooner than it should. Among the worst offenders is e-waste: old monitors, computers, phones. All filled with toxic materials. We supposedly recycle this stuff, but only a tiny fraction actually is. Massive amounts are shipped to poorer countries for recycling, hazardous to the health of the poor that work there. As you point out, raising prices will only work if quality also increases correspondingly.
I notice it, too. I rarely buy clothing and, now, when I look it's evident. Where are the $20 sweatshirts and $10 t-shirts? Ultimately I'd rather buy quality for a whole slew of reasons, many that you cover here.
The depletion of natural resources and raw materials, climate change, war and the decline of skilled labor in many industries and occupations will have a significant impact on production, distribution and consumption going forward. In the U.S., this has been readily apparent for some time now. Those of us who have embraced minimalist lifestyles will fare much better than people who are more materialistic.
I've had issues with clothing for years now. I can't stand cheap clothing but the high-dollar items are ridiculous right now. I tried to buy a sweater a couple weeks ago from a higher-end department store — the price was $450. A sweater. Nothing fancy. I try buying a yucky sweater from JC Penny's and it lasts maybe three or four wears and starts looking raggedy.
A pair of good sweat pants is going for $60 and up... I'm starting to understand why people are staying in their pajamas to shop at Walmart and the grocery store... well, maybe not understand but definitely relating to it.
Very good article! There is no "up" side to cheap goods. In the US it has created a landfill economy. Every item you buy will wind up in the rubbish bin much sooner than it should. Among the worst offenders is e-waste: old monitors, computers, phones. All filled with toxic materials. We supposedly recycle this stuff, but only a tiny fraction actually is. Massive amounts are shipped to poorer countries for recycling, hazardous to the health of the poor that work there. As you point out, raising prices will only work if quality also increases correspondingly.
Right on throughout.
I notice it, too. I rarely buy clothing and, now, when I look it's evident. Where are the $20 sweatshirts and $10 t-shirts? Ultimately I'd rather buy quality for a whole slew of reasons, many that you cover here.