Reflect {3}

I think the most important thing I learned this week is that there is a lot more to being sustainable that I thought. I guess I was guilty of thinking that it was a simple task that could easily be done. Now, dont get me wrong, I still believe that being sustainable and eco friendly is completely doable! But I never thought about it from an economic stand point as a business owner. I have expressed in my previous blogs how consumers need to be willing to invest in sustainable products, but I never thought about the many econommic aspects that the producers must face. I guess this is a result of having more of a "design mind" rather than a "business mind"... although I know the two must work together. That being said, this weeks content was more difficult for me to absorb and grasp... economics was never really my thing. Becuase of the nature of the industry, I think it is important for me to understand the economics behind the business. This will help me to further grasp the "big picture". When designing, it will be a benefit for me to be able to understand every aspect that is involved.. not jut the fun, creative part.

In our readings, I was also drawn to the section regarding fair trade. Becuase I am already working for a wholesaler, it is important for me to understand the impact that fair trade has on our business. In the fall, I will be traveling overseas to several of our factories. I will be able to use the knowledge about fair trade that I have gained to monitor and inspect the factories so I am assured that nothing inhumane is occuring. From here, I would like to learn more about how large companies are dealing with overeas factories, and fair trade laws.