Understanding Commitment to Sustainable Consumption. Insights from the Work of the Consumer Association of NRW with Local Initiatives

In recent years, many groups have emerged that collectively advocate for the appreciation of food and limited resources, such as Repair Cafés or food sharing groups. The article presents findings from the work of the Consumer Association of NRW with local initiatives. First, the typical forms of commitment and expected contributions to sustainable development are reflected upon. The article then addresses the support needs of the groups and presents previously tested offers for this target group. The conclusion shows: potentials exist, among other things, in making the already existing commitment known to a wider public and establishing a more professional member management. In order to make the practices of the initiatives accessible to an even wider audience, further developments and new business models appear necessary.