Updated: June 26, 2020
Originally Published: April 28, 2019
From the moment I watched environmental documentaries in elementary school, I was determined to contribute positively to our planet. I urged my family to recycle, took brief showers, and always turned off the lights when leaving a room. I envisioned a future where I would be an eco-conscious parent, nurturing my children with homemade baby food and breastfeeding. As I grew older, I became aware of the harmful chemicals on our produce and aspired to cultivate my own vegetables.
Much of this has become a reality for me, but I must acknowledge that it has only been possible due to my privilege. Living a “crunchy” lifestyle, or even a semi-crunchy one, often requires a certain socioeconomic status. While it’s easy to take pride in our efforts to lead an eco-friendly life, we must recognize the advantages that enable us to do so. Discussions around privilege often include race, gender, and sexual orientation, but socioeconomic privilege is the primary factor that allows individuals to embrace a crunchy lifestyle.
When people think of living in a way that prioritizes sustainability—such as eating organic, growing food, composting, or using cloth diapers—they often assume these choices save money. While some aspects may indeed reduce expenses, the reality is more nuanced. For instance, I used to have an organic garden that produced an abundance of vegetables for just the price of seeds. I felt I was saving money, which was a great feeling. However, not everyone has the luxury of a yard or the time to maintain a garden. When I transitioned to full-time work, my flourishing garden became a distant memory.
Breastfeeding is another commonly accepted aspect of the crunchy lifestyle that is often taken for granted. It’s frequently viewed as a free and beneficial option for mothers and babies alike. Yet, many women face obstacles that make breastfeeding difficult or impractical. For mothers who work long hours, finding the time to pump can be a significant challenge. Although laws like the Break Time for Nursing Mothers aim to provide necessary support, not all workplaces comply, and many mothers feel uncomfortable taking the time to pump. The reality is that breastfeeding is not always feasible for every mother, and those who can do it are often operating from a place of privilege.
Moreover, the decision to buy organic foods isn’t always economically viable. While organic produce may taste better, it isn’t accessible to everyone, especially those living in rural areas with limited options. Composting, while eco-friendly, necessitates space and time to manage, something many families simply do not have. Similarly, using cloth diapers might be seen as a responsible choice, but not everyone has the means to manage the additional laundry, particularly those without easy access to washing facilities.
Transportation choices, such as biking or electric cars, are often heralded as sustainable options. However, biking is only practical if you live in a bike-friendly area, and electric vehicles come with a hefty price tag. This isn’t to imply that all crunchy individuals are wealthy, but it’s crucial to recognize that many of these choices require specific circumstances to be viable.
If you identify with the crunchy lifestyle, it’s okay to take pride in your efforts, but also remember that many of these choices are luxuries. Gratitude is essential, and it’s important not to impose your values on others who may not have the same opportunities. Everyone is navigating their own challenges while striving to do their best.
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In summary, a crunchy lifestyle often reflects a level of privilege that not everyone has access to. While it’s admirable to pursue eco-friendly practices, we must recognize and appreciate the circumstances that allow us to do so.