having just lived at home just two years ago, i can clearly recall the obstacles that come with adjusting to this paradigm shift. i write about it because now that i'm off island...countless friends and relatives on Guam frequently ask me to collect their goods and ship their items home - a service i am happy to assist with...just don't tell the buylocal initiators.
delving a little deeper, the campaign aims at only a 10% goal in buying locally. with such a limited production of goods on island, this means the goal will rely heavily on food consumption and local retailers. can this movement prove effective when local retailers cannot offer competitive pricing or the same conveniences?
i empathize with those back home who can only attempt at becoming an expert in shipping and receiving and who constantly try to find ways to have their goods more accessible. the absence of certain things has only inspired me to think of what i could potentially contribute when and if we ever return home to start a life again. the silver lining with this movement is that it also promotes a sustainable practice. i incessantly keep track of news back home and do notice an increase in sustainable practices such as green initiatives, plastic bag bans, and zero-waste practices. this small 10% is the gateway to a greener Guam.
