Large differences in lifestyles

The large differences in consumption rates indicate that there are large differences in lifestyle. The consumption rates are lowest for families that live in smaller homes and spend much of their time in the vicinity of the home. They travel less and shorter distances, and in their daily life they make less use of private cars than the others.
Many of the participants of the research project appreciated the comparisons between the various sectors of consumption.Such comparisons made it easier to see in which sectors the consumption rates could be reduced. Others found the results too superficial. Simple comparisons between sectors and with an average consumer were not enough.Participants wished to get more detailed information that could help them to make the right choices.

Some of the participants wanted to know the limit of sustainable consumption, the amount of natural resources that can be safely used by an individual. Based on the presently available information, the researchers cannot give any definite figures. However, it is obvious that less is better. The eco-efficiency discussion has brought forward goals on different levels. In a shorter time perspective, the consumption rates should be reduced down to one fourth of the present level, but a long-term target in the Western countries should be to reduce the consumption of natural resources down to one tenth of the present level.