SINGAPORE – If you have been on TikTok recently, you would have stumbled upon a viral trend – “underconsumption core”.

Hearing that underconsumption is trending, you might be concerned about a slowdown in economic activity and a recession.

But fret not, this latest trend does not warrant alarm bells. 

Instead, it has TikTok awash with videos of people boasting about squeezing every last drop of make-up out of their bottles, wearing items they have owned for years, or thrifting for clothes instead of purchasing new ones. 

Far from being removed from our little island, the trend also has regular Singaporeans getting in on it with individuals sharing about efforts to avoid online shopping or their no-buy challenges where only necessities can be purchased.

This focus on consumption highlights the real issue behind Singapore’s waste problem – it is not just about low recycling rates, but also about the sheer volume of consumption.

“Underconsumption core” is a reminder for us to go back to the basics.

Despite various conceptions of “underconsumption core”, they are underpinned by the same principles. 

First, mindful purchasing. Only buy, consume and use what you need. No one needs more than a few pairs of footwear or a variety of make-up kits. When purchasing, opt for durable items that may be more expensive but last longer. This reduces the need for more frequent replacements, and may be more cost-efficient in the long term. 

Second, alternative consumption. Consider other options instead of buying items brand-new, such as opting for pre-loved items, renting or borrowing – with renting or borrowing the preferred options if the item will not be used regularly.

Third, responsible resource use. Maximise the mileage of items owned and use them for as long as possible, by repairing or repurposing them instead of throwing them away.

Broken down this way, “underconsumption core” is nothing particularly new. 

Personally, my wardrobe and shoe cabinet consist mainly of second-hand and upcycled items that have served me well for years and helped me avoid the need to purchase items brand-new.

I also recall that growing up, it was common for my blankets to be made of a patchwork of excess fabrics, for old T-shirts to be used as rags and for the same soap to be used for showering and clothes-washing.