Our new simple everyday life in the city
Our new everyday life was set in motion even before the pandemic began and is now changing at an even faster pace than we could have ever imagined. Involvement in addressing the climate and environment challenges is hardly new, but it continues to increase rapidly. Consumption and mobility continue to undergo change, as does our attitude towards food production and caring for nature. Interest in spending time in the woods and other outdoor areas has increased, which on the whole has spurred on the conversation about sustainable solutions and the balance between utility and pleasure.
Since the pandemic has become prolonged, it is likely that many of the new patterns and habits that have developed during the time are here to stay, and may even become more prevalent in the future. But uncertainty regarding our consumption habits has become greater than ever before. What’s waiting around the corner? We know that a lot of people have saved money during the pandemic. What will this be used for?
Digitalisation has received a push in the last year, and many senior citizens are becoming increasingly comfortable buying items such as groceries online. The successful e-commerce sector is now setting its sight on new areas and will start selling both homes and electric cars without physical interactions.
We are just at the beginning of a new development when it comes to interest in recycling and second-hand shopping. It will become natural for us to recycle even more types of goods. Used furniture and building materials are given new life and become something new and personal through what is commonly known as thrift flip.
Unnecessary work meetings are being removed, and the same applies to commuting. This reclaimed time will be spent on increased creativity in the home and in the garden, but also joint projects with our neighbours. And the longing to socialise is great.
Socialising has been moved outdoors, which feels like a new discovery. Family gatherings in the forest, after-work meetups around a barbecue, and children’s parties on the rooftop park will continue to generate hype. No longer will we have to use large living rooms or book venues. Everyone has become more tolerant of simpler arrangements. Simplicity is one topic that we will be hearing more about in many different fields. The city and housing actors are catching on, and our neighbourhoods are becoming more vibrant.
