The Chinese government does some shitty things. They mess up the Copenhagen Climate Conference, try to hack Google’s servers and overall just don’t play well with the rest of their world.
The American government will not do anything to rock the boat for dozens of political and economic reasons. US companies (with the exception of some like Google) will not do anything because it might damage profits.
Yet maybe, just maybe you can do something to send them a message. Pledge a period of time that you won’t buy anything from China. It can be a day, a week, a month or a year. Make all best attempts to not acquire anything made in China.
Doing it for more than a day may be very difficult, but it is possible. Keep in mind:
- Clothing
- Packaging (plastic grocery bags too)
- Toys
- Electronics (most electronics are made in China)
- Furniture
- Automotive components
You’ll probably find that some items are exceedingly difficult to find ones not made in China. When that happens you have a decision. Either you break your attempt to stay ‘Made in China free’ (fail), or ask the company why they partner with China for business.
Overall, don’t just try to buy in somewhere that isn’t China, but try to buy local when possible. You’ll pay more likely, but you support your local economy and lower your carbon footprint.
If the US government and companies won’t stand up to China? Who will? Maybe that someone can be you.
