Minimalism is often interpreted as a sign of moving away from overconsumption. However, the numerous commercialized manifestations of minimalism do not necessarily contribute to sufficiency-oriented consumption. What business segments have emerged within minimalism? And what opportunities and risks do these pose for sufficiency-oriented consumption?
These questions were explored by ConPolicy project managers Dr. Viola Muster and Marlene Münsch in a chapter for the anthology "Sufficiency in Business: The Transformative Potential of Business for Sustainability."
The authors' analysis shows that many of the newly emerged business segments of minimalism primarily sell dispensable, aesthetic lifestyle products that promote consumerism rather than actual sustainability. This contrasts with sufficiency-oriented business models that aim for an absolute reduction in resource consumption. It seems necessary, therefore, to critically reflect on minimalist business models and focus on values such as quality, durability of goods, and mindful consumption, which were rooted in the origins of the minimalism movement but were lost on the path to commercialization.
The complete publication can be found here.
Further information on the project “MeinDing!” can be found here.