Overconsumption is when humans use products, or purchase items; faster than they can be produced. Some common examples of this include coffee-spots everyday (or multiple times a day), Sonny Angels, Labubus, and make-up products.
Why are trinkets re-emerging?
Nostalgia: Feeling like little girls again
The world is so alone and terrible these days, having something small to bring joy can make a huge difference.
Collecting has become a hobby:
People have always developed collections, which give a sense of purpose.
Economic instability:
The American Dream is unachieved for those in their 20’s in 2025: housing is too high, food is too expensive, and taxes are constantly on the rise. Many 20-year-olds now believe that owning a home is absolutely unachievable, therefore are not budgeting for this. The money that would’ve went towards budgeting for a home, is now going towards little trinkets.
Why is this harmful?
Purchasing items that are deemed “unnecessary” or are purchased in over-consumptive ways can lead to environmental pollution. Jennifer Molidor, Senior Food Campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity, told Sentient via email. “The pressure to constantly consume is driving destructive resource extraction, pollution and waste, and contributing to the climate and extinction crises”.
Challenge consumer culture:
Avoid impulse buying new trending items
Make coffee at home
Shop at second-hand stores
Declutter spaces regularly
Mindfully shop- don’t buy items just because there is a sale
Psychological drivers:
Social Pressures: Peers/Friends having trinkets
Advertising Influence: Seeing influencers or commercials of trending items can convince people to purchase trinkets or products
Environmental Disconnection: Being simply unaware of the damages caused by the footprint of overconsumption