The Current Problems of Sustainable Production and Consumption

Sustainable development is linked to balancing consumption with sustainable production. When considering its interrelations and cause -and- effect relationship, sustainable consumption and production should be expected. In practice, it is impossible and paradoxically, the existing discrepancy between mutual non- matching of production and consumption is deepened by the same factors that enhance sustainability individually within production and consumption spheres. Moreover , this discrepancy is deepened by such positively perceived factors as the process an d product innovation being a motive power for launching new products on the market and increasing competitiveness. This is noticeable when considering an increasing quantity in product supply and developing new ranges of hitherto unknown products as well as accompanying global increase in consumption of raw materials, energy and waste. Production brings a strong stimulation of consumer needs and demands but it also puts pres sure on consumers through marketing activity, advertising and promoting consumption lifestyle patterns. In this paper, the actions targeted at developing sustainable production and consumption in two areas are described. The factors of mutual unsustainability between production and consumption within the cycle: environment - resources – production – distribution – consumption – waste - environment.