Sustainability 2.0: How Instagram accounts raise ecological awareness
22.08.2023 - The need to promote and implement sustainable practices has become an important topic in recent years. With the growing importance of social media, the way we think and act about sustainability has also changed. Instagram has become a platform where activists and influencers showcase a wide range of sustainable initiatives and everyday tips, making a clear commitment to sustainability. A look at popular sustainability channels on Instagram, how they are setting new standards and how Sustainability 2.0 works.
Social media such as Instagram now have an immense reach and influence many people's lifestyles in a variety of ways. Many digital creators on Instagram use the platform to inspire their followers to live an environmentally conscious life. As "meaningful influencers", they share tips and tricks on how to lead a less wasteful lifestyle and make small changes that have a positive impact on the environment. From zero waste to sustainable fashion to eco-friendly recipes, they offer a variety of ideas to encourage a more conscious use of our resources
A heroine against waste
In today's throwaway society, Anke Schmidt, lecturer and author, has set herself the goal with her Instagram account Wasteless Hero of raising awareness of the waste of resources and showing ways in which we can reduce our ecological footprint. To this end, Anke Schmidt shares pictures and videos with creative and practical tips on how we can make our everyday lives more sustainable. From ideas for avoiding waste to DIY projects for recycling and environmentally friendly shopping habits, the account offers a wealth of inspiration. With her channel, Anke Schmidt has built up a community of like-minded people who encourage and support each other in the comments.
Sustainability with style
When it comes to sustainable consumption and environmentally conscious purchasing decisions, the Naturalou Shop Instagram account is an inspiring place to go. The account is not just an online shop, it also presents informative posts on sustainability topics, provides tips for a sustainable lifestyle and emphasises the importance of conscious purchasing decisions. Insights into the history and origin of the products on offer are also provided to raise awareness of the ecological benefits.
Everyday family life in harmony with nature
Environmentally friendly choices are also important in family life. Lea, a mother of three, runs the Family_sustainability account, where she presents practical tips and creative ideas for environmentally friendly choices in family life. From toy recycling and DIY projects for children to sustainable recipes for the whole family, the account offers a wealth of ideas on how to make a positive contribution to sustainability as a family. The mum also shows her followers that sustainable family life not only protects the environment, but can also strengthen family cohesion. Through conscious consumer behaviour and joint activities in harmony with nature, the channel creates valuable memories and promotes an understanding of the impact of our actions on the environment. The Instagram account also emphasises the importance of education and awareness for children. Mum Lea shares resources, books and projects to promote sustainable thinking and action among the youngest members of the family. In this way, values such as mindfulness, resource conservation and respect for nature are instilled from an early age.
A critical look at sustainability
A slightly different Instagram account dedicated to sustainability is Nachhaltig.Kritisch. This account takes a slightly different perspective and takes a critical look at the topic of sustainability. Instead of only highlighting the positive aspects, the challenges and contradictions in the field of sustainability are also highlighted here. The channel publishes informative, thought-provoking contributions that encourage people to look at sustainability from different angles. Controversial topics relating to environmental protection, consumer behaviour and social justice are discussed. The account encourages its followers not to be blinded by "green symbolism" alone, but to take a critical look at the entire sustainability movement. Through its critical approach, the account promotes a reflective discussion on the topic of sustainability and encourages people to ask uncomfortable questions. The account shows that sustainability is not a simple concept, but a complex and multi-layered topic that requires constant review and further development.
Steinbeis Papier on Instagram
As a brand manufacturer, Steinbeis Papier is active on Instagram, and Steinbeis Papier trainees and students also have their own channel there. The trainees' account is all about training or a dual study programme at Steinbeis Papier and the many opportunities the company offers future employees. Popular topics include the company's own fire brigade and reels directly from everyday training. The company's Instagram account features exciting info posts on the topic of sustainability, virtual insights into the mill and paper production as well as news on the regional, sustainable commitment of the European market leader for recycled graphic paper. In addition, humorous reels with a twinkle in the eye show how easy it can be to achieve more sustainability in the office. As an eco-pioneer, Steinbeis Papier also wants to inspire people on Instagram with interesting insights and easy-to-implement tips in the area of paper and printing for more environmental protection - sustainability 2.0 in action.
Cover picture: Enric Cruz López/Pexels
Nadia Riaz-Ahmed is an online editor. She is most interested in everything to do with digitalization and new technologies.
