01. Introduction: A Brief Explanation of Wants and Needs

Imagine walking into a retail store and setting your eyes on the fanciest handbag, currently trending all over the internet. Taking into consideration the popularity of the handbag, the sentence rushing through your mind is: “I want that.” Have we all heard or once said this sentence before? This is a question that many of us ask, but have we ever considered why we want it, or rather, do we need it? The tug of war between what our desires are versus our needs is currently a prevalent topic of discussion when making sustainable decisions.

Chris Drew from Helpful Professor defines needs as essential, everyday items required to survive and to live an ideal life.² Some common examples which are classified as “needs” include food, water, and sleep. One requires food and water for energy and to sustain metabolic processes in our body. As well, sleep is an important part of our lives which we require to function during the day. On the other hand, wants are defined as desirable objects which do not influence one’s survival. Often, these are luxurious items, and ones that are classified as “trendsetters.” A major difference between want and need is that the former is not necessary for one’s survival, and are simply pleasurable items.
 

02. What influences us to have wants and needs?

In today’s world, it is often social media that influences one’s wants and needs; often fulfilling one’s desire for a higher status through the purchase of luxury goods, such as clothes, shoes, handbags, and technology. Keeping up with the latest trends has become a centre of attraction when it comes to shopping, and filling our homes with luxurious items has become the main focus of our fast-paced lives. Consumers often seek connection by purchasing items which are often expensive and easily sit under the category of “want.” 

Made in CA has reported that 52% of Canadians have admitted to purchasing novelty items due to social media influence.⁵ Multiple studies have highlighted the increasing impact of social media on shopping behavior, especially in younger generations.⁴

In a nutshell, our environment plays a major role in shaping our wants and needs. The world around us, from social media to peer pressure, is constantly changing our desires and really influencing decisions while shopping.⁶

03. Some items we actually do not really need to buy, but we still do it

Below is a list of some items that are not necessary to our lives. Are you surprised to see any of these items? If yes, which ones?⁷

1. Post-It Notes Holder
2. Cellulite Creams
3. Single-Use Cookware
4. Disposable Razors

04. Negative consequences of mass shopping on sustainability

While buying these items may bring us some satisfaction and fulfillment into our lives, mindless overconsumption is harmful for the environment. At every stage of the shopping process, billions of resources are severely depleted and exhausted at an alarming speed, resulting in massive greenhouse gas carbon emissions altering natural habitats. Such waste is often heightened during the holiday season (around November and December), as people take advantage of tempting offers and deals offered by retailers to purchase potential gifts for relatives and friends. The higher the demand, the higher the supply; such economic factors result in higher levels of warehouse activity and transportation, the main factors of environmental pollution.

Considering the harmful consequences of such practices, we can combat these by becoming more eco-conscious and responsible about our shopping habits. Fortunately, it is possible to do so on a low budget!

05. Want to Treat Yourself on a Small Budget While Still Fulfilling Your Needs? No Problem! Here are Some Sustainable Low-Budget Habits and Practices.

A. Limit Purchases of Trendsetter Items 

• Social media influencers use their various platforms to promote items which are not required on a daily basis
• Examples include the latest pair of shoes, IPhone, cosmetics, clothes, etc.
• Something to ponder: if your current pair of shoes serve you well, is the desire for the trendiest shoes really a need?

B. Shop Smart!

• We will be using stationary as an example here: Staples is known for its supply of aesthetic stationary such as notebooks, cute pens, and pencil cases.
• These items are undeniably beautiful; however, similar items can be purchased at lower costs
• Places such as Dollarama and Dollar Tree are among the best places to check out if you’re looking for fancy stationary at amazing prices! A $3 notebook with a beautiful design has the same job as a $15 one from another store.

C. Pause, Reflect, Repeat

• Before making a purchase, take a moment to pause!
• Then, reflect on a few questions – Is this item necessary? Do I have this at home? Is this a want or a need? Can I find this item somewhere else for less?
• Repeat! The process of pausing and reflecting is essential to shop sustainably, as well as allowing one the opportunity to distinguish between want and need.

06. Takeaways

It is entirely natural to navigate through want and need – deciding between the two is normal! Asking yourself, “Is this something I really need,” builds upon the practice of self-reflection, and this practice could go a long way when it comes to sustainable shopping. Simply being mindful of our purchases is a great starting point! It is alright to have both wants and needs in our lives; however, balancing between the two with intention is the beauty of life.

07. Interactive Quiz on the Perks App

Harness the opportunity to try a fun quiz on the UASU Perks App to solidify your knowledge about want vs needs!

BLOG WRITTEN BY: Rebha Badhan and Lynn Kenmeu
BLOG EDITED BY: Raeghan Cromwell and Navdeep Badhan

References

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https://zbib.org/. Accessed 29 Nov. 2025.