Overconsumption is widely encouraged in society by advertising, marketing, programmed ageing, social pressure and the disposable culture (disposable items). It is essential to educate consumers about the impact of their consumption. Several sources can play a role in this education, including schools and universities, governments and the family. It is important to recognise that companies are also an important means of sharing information.

Access to information is essential to promote sustainable consumption, including disclosure of the carbon footprint of certain products. Competent authorities should develop a framework and guidelines for businesses, and implementation should be discussed in collaboration with the private sector. The development and use of labels can be a valuable approach to inform consumers and achieve these goals. However, this will only be really useful if the certified products meet ecological criteria and are not 'greenwashed'. It is also important to support players who already offer sustainable consumption models.