Our world is wandering through time drunk on consumption (colloquially prosperity bubble), and the discussion on solving sustainability issues seems to be clouded accordingly. If we look at the matter soberly, the rebound effect teaches us very memorably that we will not be able to save the world with electric cars, LEDs and biokerosene, because everyday practice differs from the theoretical idea of what to do and what not to do. The CO2 burden of our lifestyle has to do with misbehaviour, the challenge is to restart our high culture. In addition to the technology shift (watch out for the rebound), we need a mind shift: a change in awareness is the prerequisite for changes in consumption and behaviour in the interests of humanity's sustainability.
We have become accustomed to the magic of technical feasibility; the environment pays the price for total comfort. Today, we need to return - as part of the mindshift - to self-efficacy, to the ability to distinguish sense from nonsense, to differentiate between necessity/necessity and luxury/abundance. This competence is a prerequisite for sufficient action/consumption. As designers, we can provide impetus by making things visible. Abstract consumption of resources in everyday life can be charmingly brought within reach through products. In terms of their classic utility function, we don't need these products any more than we need products of abundance, but in terms of their intellectual nutritional value, they are indispensable as a counter-position to mentally damaging products of abundance.
Arousing desires, making the unfamiliar, sometimes uncomfortable, palatable falls within the core competences of the applied arts. If design delivers productised perspectives, as offers, propositions, participation options, opportunities for participation, etc., if it favours the newcomer process as a vehicle in this sense, then design can contribute to the cultural mindshift. Design influences our social interaction, economic activity, the conditions of solidarity and ultimately it can even help to support politics and the shaping of a sustainable society.