Be inspired by Consumer Power
Take the dispute over Shell's now famous Brent Spar oil platform. In 1995 Shell decided that the platform was to be dumped in the sea. A public outcry followed over this approach and consumers started to boycott Shell service stations and products.
Despite support by the British government, Shell eventually agreed that Brent Spar was to be dismantled on land rather than dumped at sea.
Brent Spar
carbon-info.org
- Consumer Power
A clear message to Shell
Who is the most powerful person in the world? YOU! As a consumer you have more power and ability to influence than anyone else on the planet.
And why is this? Because of money. If you don't like something, you don't spend your money on it or you buy it somewhere else.
You can make or break a company, control the success of a product and even make governments fear you may start a revolution!
Brent Spar
Because the consumer send a clear financial message to Shell: We will not buy from you if you do not behave in an environmental and responsible way.
In Germany, Shell lost 30% of its turn-over, while the company at the height of the boycott lost millions every day. On top of the financial damage, Shell suffered a fatal blow to its corporate image, which is lasting to this day.
The original dumping of the platform would have cost Shell £4.5m, while the dismantling and loss of income in the end cost the company about £60m. You can't argue with public pressure and money of that order!
As a consumer, you have the power to influence those who contribute to Global Warming
Be inspired!
