The globalized market of today offers us convenience our ancestors would be astonished to see, but there are drawbacks to that convenience. A turbulent economy and a damaged environment are two negative factors that are often ignored or overlooked. While it is proof of humanity’s intelligence and ingenuity that we are often able to procure anything at any time, the downsides to a globalized market need to be better acknowledged. To combat those downsides, many manufacturers and artisans have started making their wares from locally sourced materials. Many consumers, aware of the benefits, have also switched to buying products made from locally sourced materials. But just what are those benefits, and are they worth it?

A Supportive Community Framework

When a business or artisan chooses to make good out of locally sourced materials, it encourages rapport and connections made within the local community. It also means that money is being kept within the community which will directly increase local economic activity. More money in the local economy can lead to improvements in infrastructure, an improvement in wages, and an increase in donations made to local nonprofits. 

Choosing to spend money with retailers who used locally sourced materials also contributes to keeping the community alive. Large chain stores are homogenized and far less personalized than smaller local sellers, and can actually hinder a community’s self-image and the sense of pride people feel in that community. Unique smaller businesses within a community are what sets that community apart, and are often highly supported for that reason. 

Rise Earrings, made by Tasmanian artisan Hulley Jewellery, crafted out of locally sourced timber. 

Reduction in Environmental Impacts 

When a business chooses to locally source the materials, they are reducing their ecological footprint. There will be no need for long-haul transport, which cuts down on fuel consumption and emissions. Less transportation results in less traffic congestion, which also cuts back on pollution. The amount of waste and packaging used is also reduced, which are significant factors to environmental damage. Choosing to support businesses that source materials locally may seem like a small thing, but the truth is that by supporting them you are helping them continue along this beneficial path and paving the way for other artisans and businesses to follow suit. 

Two Ravens Candles makes beeswax candles out of pure, locally sourced Tasmanian beeswax. 

Promoting Entrepreneurship

Buying products made from locally sourced materials will lead to a boost in local economic growth, which in turn can attract new professionals, and new talent to the community. These newcomers may start businesses of their own, expanding the local economy. Encouraging this type of entrepreneurship is a type of economic development which has a focus on supporting smaller local businesses that have the potential for growth instead of trying to regain large chain companies. The economic growth that comes about through supporting those who use locally sourced materials can also lead to an expansion of community as well as additional benefits for that community. 

Wellness Lane’s Love & Peace Care Pack features products that are all made from locally sourced materials.  

Supporting Local, Shopping Local 

Businesses that choose to use locally sourced materials for their products deserve more recognition for what they do. Not only are they taking large steps to minimize their environmental impact, they are also doing a huge part in supporting other businesses in their community and providing a boost for the local economy. By choosing to buy from them, you are supporting them in turn and allowing them to continue growing their business, hopefully inspiring others to make the same choices along the way.