Stop buying American stuff with this one cool trick
How much of the stuff you pay for comes from the US? Do you use an iPhone or wear Levi's jeans? Maybe you like to drink Bourbon and Coca-Cola? What about digital services – do you subscribe to Netflix or Adobe Photoshop? Most people don't spend much time thinking about the origin of what they buy. But given the hostility the new US administration has shown towards democracy and Europe, it might be worth taking a moment to consider what (if anything) you need from overseas.
Luckily, finding replacements for your favourite US goods can be easy. This online tool allows you to search for a product or service you use, and find alternatives made by European companies. For example, a search for 'Netflix' reveals ERTFLIX from Greece and Joyn from Germany. If you're looking to replace your last iPhone, you might consider a Fairphone from the Netherlands.
Or if you're craving a glass of Coca-Cola, you can reach for Fritz-cola in Germany, Irn Bru in the UK, or Tröst in Sweden. Whatever your motive, buying local comes with many benefits: You can support your local economy, whilst consuming more sustainably, and taking back just a bit of power from the orange man.
For some, not buying from the US has become an act of protest. After US president Donald Trump made a series of escalating comments about making Canada the 51st US state, Canadians began boycotting US items in their grocery stores.
Furthermore, buying European could be the more affordable option. With Trump threatening to slap tariffs on imports (and with EU leaders expected to respond with retaliatory tariffs of their own), American products can soon be expected to get significantly more expensive.