Impacts of sustainable consumption choices on quality of life: the Slow Food example

Though increasingly understood that sustainable consumption is a key component for sustainable development, establishing its viability remains a crucial task. Moving towards sustainable consumption will realistically require significant changes in consumptio n patterns, as well as rethinking the connection between increased consumption and well-being. However, an identified knowledge gap exists in understanding how sustainable consumption choices impact lifestyle and quality of life. As a starting point, this paper explores the relationship through food, one of the four priority areas for sustainable consumption. By examining Slow Food, the paper highlights a consumer movement embracing principles of responsible consumption and finds a positive impact for more sustainable consumption patterns and quality of life. It is hoped that this fosters further dialogue for action and implementation of sustainable consumption.