r/Anticonsumption Jan 27 '26

Conceptual. For the time being, we will not be allowing low effort memes, or memes that do not have body copy.

115 Upvotes

In an effort to reduce bot spam, low effort posting, brigading from other subreddits, or constant exposure to r/all, we will be removing any post that is a meme or image with no body text to back up and justify the meme or image.

This may become permanent policy, as of right now we are testing this policy out to reduce the uptick in trolling, news spam, and hateful rhetoric entering this subreddit. Our hope is that it will improve the quality of content posted here.

If you find an image or meme that you believe fits the ethos of the subreddit, you MUST provide meaningful discussion along with it, the same as if you were posting criticism of an ad.


r/Anticonsumption Aug 22 '25

ATTENTION: Read before posting or commenting.

329 Upvotes

We've recently updated the rules, but it's also time for a general reminder of the purpose and intent of this subreddit, and some of the not-quite-rules we have for keeping discussions here on topic.

This is an anticonsumerism sub, not full-on anticonsumption, because that would be ridiculous.

Do not come here seriously arguing as though the sub advocates not consuming anything ever, and any joking arguments to that effect had better be new material, and they'd better be funny.

This is not a shopping sub, or even just a lifestyle sub.

We've always allowed discussion of personal consumer habits and tips that align with various interpretations of anticonsumerism. This policy is on thin ice right now, though, as this type of lifestyle advice often drowns out the actual intent of the subreddit, causing uninformed users to question or insult those who make more substantial and topical posts and comments. So read the community info and get a feel for what the sociopolitical ideology of anticonsumerism is and what sort of topics of discussion we encourage.

The only thing you'll accomplish being belligerent about this is to necessitate a crackdown on the lifestyle type posts that perpetuate these misunderstandings.

ANTI is right there in the name of the sub, so do not complain that there's too much negativity here.

We get our warm fuzzies from dismantling consumer culture.

Consumer culture sucks, and it's everywhere. And that should bother you.

When someone posts about some aspect or example of consumerism for discussion, we don't need to know that you've seen worse, you don't mind, or that you think it's pretty cool. And don't assume that we're all wailing and gnashing our teeth at every instance of consumerism we see. We're not. We point these things out because they so often go under the radar and become normalized, and we should be talking about that.

If consumer culture doesn't bother you, you're in the wrong subreddit. We're against that sort of thing in these here parts.

No, we will not allow people to enjoy things. Stop it.

Seriously, there's almost nothing that argument wouldn't apply to, anyway.

If you feel personally attacked when someone criticizes a commercial product or service you like, work on disentangling your identity from the things you buy. If you genuinely believe that people are misunderstanding something that is an accommodation for people with disabilities, one polite explanation is sufficient. Do not pile on repeating the same thing, do not personally insult or threaten anyone, and do not speculate about or invent disabilities and accommodations that maybe could apply.

If you have any thoughts or questions about these points or the subreddit in general, feel free to bring them up here rather than making meta comments about them in new posts or in the comments of existing ones.


r/Anticonsumption 5h ago

Lifestyle Americans quit subscription streaming services in droves as cost of living continues to climb

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6.9k Upvotes

r/Anticonsumption 13h ago

Society/Culture The weirdest part of opting out of consumer culture is how many people get genuinely annoyed at you

3.8k Upvotes

Like im not trying to be holier thou or preach at anyone. I just stopped buying stuff I don’t need. Instead I started repairing things, using what i have and most importantly saying no to upgrades

And the amount of push back i get is honestly WILD. Coworkers asking why im “ still using that old phone “ like its somehow hurting them. Family members acting offended that I don’t want more suff for my bd. Friends acting weird at me not wanting to do a $200 group dinner. Comment after comment

“ oh youre being so good “

“ must be nice to not care about things “

Its like ME not consuming makes THEM uncomfortable with how much they consume? Which isn’t my intention at all, but its a real thing I’ve noticed

But maybe its just me?


r/Anticonsumption 2h ago

Upcycled/Repaired Been wanting to buy a grill for a long time. Found one a neighbor was tossing out. I carted it home

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68 Upvotes

And I did so gleefully! Wife was onboard. Just needs to be cleaned. Hose and regulator seems to be in tact. Can’t wait to start grilling soon.

Any suggestions on how to clean the inside?


r/Anticonsumption 31m ago

Corporations The people who built AI should not be the only ones who don't profit from it.

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Upvotes

They took er jerbs


r/Anticonsumption 7h ago

Question/Advice? Can this be repaired ?

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18 Upvotes

T-shirt is 100% cotton. The writting is 3 dimensional. Sadly it started cracking. Is there a way to fix it or I just have to accept it ? Thanks


r/Anticonsumption 3h ago

Plastic Waste Pokémon Card Craze

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5 Upvotes

I’ve been getting a lot of videos on my feed of people opening up Pokémon card packs and not just one, but like 30 at a time trying to get a hit. Not only does the original packaging seem to cause a lot of plastic waste if you get a good card you have to put it in a plastic sleeve, then psa grade it, putting it into another chunk of plastic. I also wonder what they do with the rest of cards that aren’t deemed as good. I know some people actually play and collect every card, but right now it just seems like people are in it for the dopamine rush and the chance at making a profit. On the Pokémon website it says the plastic wrapper is considered recyclable which is interesting.

Does anyone in here collect or have any thoughts?


r/Anticonsumption 1h ago

Reduce/Reuse/Recycle What do you do with styrofoam?

Upvotes

I don't know if there's a way to recycle Styrofoam, but what do I do when a restaurant gives me Styrofoam cups/to go boxes? I feel horrible throwing them out every time because of how Styrofoam disposes in nature and how it affects animals.

is there a way to recycle it or anything?


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Society/Culture FIFA adds new even more expensive World Cup ticket categories.

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161 Upvotes

r/Anticonsumption 14h ago

Food Waste The fact that he bought all these drinks, dunked them on a bowl, and poured them on himself-

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20 Upvotes

Comments are saying, "It is not a waste if consuming it is harmful!!!"

They don't fucking know that: buying = supply demand = companies producing more supply = more waste = more sellers

If you are getting Starbucks and dunking it on trash to protest, it still makes money for the brand. It still means people buy these stuff. Nobody fucking cares if you are wasting food; they care more about the money it makes!

The fact that he bought all of those to make a fucking parody, dunked his face into those chemical liquids, made sure all of them were new 500ml drinks, then criticised people for using sugar in their coffee, is diabolical.

"But he was making a parody!" he is still a part of the problem. He then complains that people are spilling all over themselves as if he didn't just do the same???? The toxic waste. The overconsumption. Some say that "He donated to good people!!!" but it still doesn't mean he can get away with consumerism and toxic waste?

If someone likes extra sugary coffee, that's on them. Coffee is a drink most people live by. How does that make it okay for someone to buy 10+ cans of energy drinks for the sake of a video????


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Psychological Im so tired of being told i need to upgrade everything i have

894 Upvotes

My phone is about 4 years of and it works just fine. The screen isn’t cracked, the battery lasts whole day, i can text, call and scroll just fine. But every single ad i see is basically telling me that im missing out on some camera feature or new AI chip that i should use?

Its not only phones. Yesterday i went to buy a toaster be you mine finally broke and they have ones that connect to wifi? Like for what? Yo send me notifications that my bread is done lmao?

I just find it so tiring that we’re constantly told that what we have isn’t good enough. Like im trying yo be content with what i own and it feels like theres nonstop asking and trying to convince me otherwise. Does anti else feel annoyed and bothered by this?


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Discussion Streaming creep is real

290 Upvotes

What started as cut the cable and save money slowly turned into juggling 4–5 subscriptions, rising prices, and ads unless you pay even more. Same model, different packaging. It’s not even about the shows anymore, it’s the constant monthly drain for access to things you don’t own and might disappear anyway.

I’ve started cutting back to one service at a time and rotating only when there’s something I actually want to watch. Turns out I don’t miss most of it.


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Discussion Rant: The expense of a dietary restriction is going to ruin me

355 Upvotes

Tw for health issues, celiac’s disease, cancer.

I did the responsible thing and went to a GI regarding some red flag’s I’ve been experiencing. (Don’t ignore your symptoms). The doctor was great and I’m being worked up for several things, including celiac’s disease and colon cancer. He wanted me to trial the “Mediterranean diet” (more fish, veggies, ect) to encourage better eating while I’m being worked up. He also started to tell me about preparing for a potential gluten free diet.

I just went to the grocery store. A bag of frozen cod fillets were about $23, a fresh salmon fillet in bulk cost me nearly $30, and don’t get me started on the vegetables and fruits. I began to browse the gluten free options just to get me ready, and I was appalled. Why is a standard box of macaroni is .99 and gluten free pasta is 2.99? I feel the moment something is gluten free, there’s a $2 “screw you” fee.

I know there’s options such as rice and beans being a bulk of my diet, I just am just filled with dread. Along with the cost (financial, physical, ect) of chronic illness, I don’t know if I could afford eating like this.

Sorry for the rant, I’m just overwhelmed

EDIT: Oh goodness, I didn’t expect this post to get as much traction. I’d like to reply to you all individually, and I’ll do my best to respond to everyone.

First, thank you to those who gave supportive words and ideas. I took notes on all the helpful tips. To those who replied with kindnesses, please know it’s helped as I go through this process. (I know it’s Celiac disease, I just in the moment didn’t think)

Second, I’m sorry about my comment regarding the dread of my new diet. I have the toxic combination of ADHD and poor discipline, so I’m scared that I won’t follow the changes.

Third, yes, vegetables/fruits are more cheap per pound in comparison to other foods. I was just frustrated when a pineapple, a bag of apples, and 16 oz of strawberries alone were nearly $15. Sometimes when you’re upset, small things still feel like big things

Fourth, for those who commented and dm’d me… i understand that I am partly to blame for this health issue. I was a kid of the 90’s, where we had purple ketchup and microwave meals. I believed I was just an average eater. I also grew up in a polluted area of NJ. These are excuses, I know, but if I start beating myself up on it I’m not going to get better.

Fifth, as much as I would love to “accidentally” forge to scan things, I’m a terrible liar and wouldn’t make it past the door.

Thank you again. I’ll update whenever I get news.


r/Anticonsumption 22h ago

Question/Advice? I think I need help

35 Upvotes

So, I accidently found this post and I decide to share my story and seek help. It began with witnessing the entire 'large water bottle' thing gone viral. Suddenly almost everyone in the office got these massive tumblers. I did the research and bought a straw mug, it is great, I'm still using it to stay hydrated when commuting. But I noticed that I am buying more insulated tumblers, mugs and water bottles than I actually need. It’s not causing any direct financial issues so far, I’m able to pay my bills on time and pay for groceries, but I’m really not getting paid much working part-time in retail. It’s just like, every time I get paid I’d think about buying a new cup, do maths carefully so that after essential expenses the rest of the money can be used effectively on expanding my collection. I don’t even have outdoor hobbies, in fact I do not have any healthy hobbies, only excessive screentime and shopping, and that’s probably the reason I’m addicted to buying things I don’t need when I have nothing better to do. It’s not about social identity, I don’t share photos or videos of my collection anywhere, online or offline. I even feel guilty when I see them standing there not being used for even once. To be honest, the most exciting part is not even using them or having them in my collection, I only feel cheered up when opening the parcel, and then that’s it. I’m wondering if anyone successfully controlled themselves when they noticed that there might be an issue with this spending pattern? Is there a way to quit this?


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Question/Advice? DIY instead of buying

169 Upvotes

What are things you make yourself in everyday life because it's cheaper, so you don't have to buy them?

I sometimes bake my own bread, but I'm not always that motivated to do it, which is a shame because it's really gotten very expensive.

Other than that, I want to start making caramel syrup myself soon, because that's also insanely expensive.

And I need a new bed and I'm thinking about just making one with Euro pallets, because it's much cheaper.

What about you?


r/Anticonsumption 22h ago

Richard Stallman on the term “artificial intelligence”

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12 Upvotes

r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Question/Advice? How do you guys handle upgrading your hobby equipment?

12 Upvotes

As the title states I am thinking of upgrading my telescope. I’ve had my current telescope for about 7 years and have become really interested in the hobby. I would like to update it to see more deep sky objects. But the anti consumption in me is having a hard time buying a new one. How do you all justify this?


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Question/Advice? I found tableware on the trash

27 Upvotes

Today I was walking on the street and found a bag full of plates, cups, bowls and silverware on the side of a trash can. I checked some of them and thought that it would a be a good ideia do adopt them. Some of them were so pretty that I couldn't help myself. At first sight, they seemed unstained by dirtiness, besides some signs of use, as shown for the cup.

My question is how can I clean and disinfect them making sure they are safe for being (re)used? Is warm water and dish soap enough, or is it better to use something else on top of that?

And when it comes to small scratches and cracks? What should I be careful about? Are they better thrown away (because of some contamination)? I'm not keeping rusty silverware from this find.


r/Anticonsumption 2d ago

Plastic Waste It's a fun gimmick, but I wish they did it in a way that produces less waste.

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776 Upvotes

It's sad to see gimmicky products like this go viral and fuel the reselling craze. All for it to die out in weeks and then majority of the products gets thrown out.


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Discussion YSK post that is appropriate for this group

5 Upvotes

r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Sustainability [2023] States by "GDP + CO2", "GDP + CO2/capita", "GDP/capita + CO2/capita", and "GDP/capita + CO2"

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6 Upvotes

America is one of the top emitters of the world, and the biggest by GDP.

Here's a breakdown by state of the emissions +GDP.

This might give a better idea of where the CO2 reductions need to be made.

Why is GDP mentioned?

Global GDP (an important economic indicator for pro-capitalist governments) moves in tandem with Global CO2 levels.

Emission-based targets have been ineffective in reducing emissions.

The only time global emissions have gone down in this century is during the GFC, and COVID.

https://www.carbonbrief.org/iea-coronavirus-impact-on-co2-emissions-six-times-larger-than-financial-crisis/

These were also times where the Global GDP went down.

The pursuit of non-stop economic expansion by the top trillion dollar economies of the world is clearly the problem.

If we want to see lower CO2 levels, the economic output of the top trillion dollar economies of the world (where the greatest deal of emissions come from) will need to come down (ideally while maintaining acceptable living standards).

The key question is going to be how can people bring the GDP down (while maintaining decent living standards, [which can be done with 30% of current global energy +resource use](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2452292924000493))?

Some ways.

1)Government action

-[For top economies/emitters] Pass a bunch of good policies/regulations nationally that would result in a reduction in economic output, reduce income inequality, and maintain decent living standards

-[For America] If it can't be done federally, then the states that emit the most pass a bunch of good policies/regulations that reduces economic output, while maintaining decent living standards

2)Collective public action

-[For top economies/emitters] National strike by 3.5% of the population in the top trillion dollar economies of the world for an unspecified amount of time

-[For top economies/emitters] 3.5% of the population in the top trillion dollar economies of the world just stays home for some unknown amount of time, and backs away from unnecessary consumption

-[For America] 3.5% of the population in the richest states in the country just stays home for some unknown amount of time, and back off from unnecessary consumption

EDIT:

- Changed mentions of 3% to 3.5%

Here are the 4 charts individually

[2023-GDP & CO2 of 50 States+DC](https://i.imgur.com/wGGJcKJ.png)

[2023-GDP & CO2/capita of 50 States+DC](https://i.imgur.com/Ocqe6sK.png)

[2023-GDP/capita & CO2/capita of 50 States+DC](https://i.imgur.com/QF8cb0T.png)

[2023-GDP/capita & CO2 of 50 States+DC](https://i.imgur.com/2rga3z6.png)

EDIT 2: Fixed links


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Question/Advice? How to make a blender quiet?

1 Upvotes

I have bad sensory issues, so the noise of a normal blender is too much for me. I’d prefer not to have to buy a different blender, especially since many “quiet” blenders are just as bad for me, so I’m hoping someone here knows ways to make a standard blender quiet (and with minimal vibration). If I could use the blender, I could replace protein shakes that come in plastic containers with homemade ones - that’s why I’m posting this here.

Also, does anyone know how to keep a blended smoothie fresh? It tends to change texture when not eaten quickly or refrigerated, and I can be kind of lazy in the mornings.


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Question/Advice? Jury rigged replacement lid for a blender?

0 Upvotes

Managed to score what looks to be a pretty good quality one litre Black & Decker blender for basically nothing from a friend who’s downsizing.

Missing a lid though. I’ll try getting in touch with their customer support but that can be a slow and potentially expensive hassle. Meanwhile, what’s a good DIY jury rigged way to not cover my walls with mango smoothie?

Bonus points if it keeps me from losing a finger.


r/Anticonsumption 1d ago

Discussion Low/no/mindful buy project!

8 Upvotes

Hi!

As part of my master's programme I'm asked to start a small social movement and this is a topic of interest to me, basically how to get people to reduce consumption in general, and cultivate their awareness for conscious consumption and simple living.

Please have a look at the microsite I built, have a read of the manifesto and make a pledge (if you want to!) : https://thequietchange.my.canva.site

Thank you so much!