consumptievrij

Consumptievrij is a Dutch term describing a stance, policy, or practice aimed at reducing or eliminating consumption of goods and services. The word combines consumptie (consumption) with vrij (free) and is used in debates about sustainability, anti-consumerism and minimalism.

In individual contexts, being consumptievrij refers to efforts to decrease reliance on new purchases, favoring repair, reuse, borrowing, renting, or sharing, and prioritizing experiences or services over material goods. In organizational or public settings, consumptievrij can denote initiatives or rules designed to limit sales, advertising, or single-use items to curb waste and environmental impact.

For example, a festival might be described as consumptievrij if it discourages vendor selling of disposable products, or a community program might promote repair cafés and second-hand markets.

The term is sometimes used descriptively to reflect a broader cultural movement toward simplified living or degrowth, but it is not a single formal policy with universal standards. Critics argue that consumptievrij can be impractical or exclusionary and may overlook structural factors that encourage consumption. Supporters emphasize personal responsibility, resource efficiency, and resilience through reduced material throughput.

See also minimalism, anti-consumerism, sustainable living, degrowth, zero-waste, sharing economy.