ABSTRACT
A fair consumption space has been defined as “an ecologically healthy perimeter that supports within it an equitable distribution of resources and opportunities for individuals and societies to fulfill their needs and achieve wellbeing” (Akenji et al., 2021: 13). Recognizing that there are power imbalances in society, especially between rich and poor, and growing competition over resources to meet people’s needs, the approach suggests parameters for ensuring well-being for everyone within ecological limits. Given that household consumption currently drives about two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions, high importance has been placed on identifying low-carbon lifestyles within an ecologically safe band or area, between an environmental ceiling (or maxima) and a social floor (or minima) (see Figure 31.1). This framework serves to focus on planning and practical decision-making regarding the range of consumption choices that exist across key lifestyle domains such as housing, transport, services, food, leisure, and consumer goods (see Box 31.1).
