ali birston's blog

As a consumer in today’s day and age where “green” is becoming mainstream and more and more companies are making claims about sustainability, it can almost seem overwhelming making purchasing decisions. Whether they are relatively significant investments or just a regular grocery shop, how do we really know if we’re making a difference by purchasing local ingredients or by choosing to drive a hybrid car? And beyond that, how can we track our purchases over time to reduce our impact?

While buying the new iPhone 5 may have not been your most sustainable purchase decision, at least it will come in handy to help you download the new app called Oroeco. While it is currently in beta testing, this app is designed to “tackle climate change, one purchase at a time”. How you may ask? Oroeco automatically tracks spending (through Mint.com) and then visualizes the climate change impact (starting with GHG emissions) of each transaction. It then goes one step further by recommending tips for improvement, and by reminding you of personal goals you set for yourself. Last but not least, it incorporates a social dimension by allowing you to compare and compete with Facebook friends and earn “oro” points to unlock virtual prizes and real world rewards.

Although this app may not necessarily change behavior right away, by increasing awareness about the carbon footprint of our everyday purchases it is certainly a step in the right direction.  Not only will this app hopefully encourage a shift from consumers, but also from brands as well who will need to respond accordingly. By putting our money where our mouths are, we are showing companies that we value truly sustainable products and that we, as individuals, can indeed lead the green revolution.

 

References: Sustainable, Ethical Decisions? There’s An App For That, Indiegogo – Oroeco