Author: Dewi Satriani

If we as urbanites feel distant from the forest or the sea, and think we have nothing to do with the extinction of plants and animals deep in the jungle or the destruction of coral reefs in the sea, then we have the wrong perception.

Our daily lives have a direct and very close relationship with the forest and marine habitats where various other living things live, namely through what we consume: food, cleaning tools, books and paper, cosmetics, transportation, etc.

We eat seafood. We fry side dishes. We read the newspaper. We clean the house. We ride motorized vehicles. All of these, as well as our other daily activities, utilize natural resources from both the forest and the sea. It's not that we eat forest wood, but we use paper made from forest wood pulp. All the products we consume, if we are willing to trace them, we will definitely find one of the natural habitats as the source.

So, who is the most responsible person for the use of natural resources on this earth? The answer is: WE, as CONSUMERS.

WWF released a short animated movie that tells the relationship between our consumption and the condition of our forests and seas in Indonesia. As consumers, we are advised to choose good products, which have minimal impact on the environment, and are responsible because they are produced in ways that consider the preservation of habitats, animals and natural resources themselves.

When we shop, choose products that have eco-label certification, or products produced by producers that we know are responsible for the ecological and social environment.

We need to change our consumption patterns and lifestyles, so that our natural resources remain sustainable, and our food security is maintained. As wise consumers, we also need to voice our concern. Declare your stance and pledge to be a wise consumer through www.change.org/beliyangbaik.

#BuyGood for a better environment.