Economic prosperity often makes us consume at random and we forget that all resources on this planet are finite. It is only during times of economic recession that we are reminded about the finite nature of all resources, and we then hope that perhaps it may not be too late for us to act towards reducing our consumption, so that the available resources last a bit longer.
Our responsibility towards society as a whole is very serious business. As responsible citizens, we are expected to keep our consumption in check, and consume only what is absolutely essential. This will not only save the finite resources on this planet, but will also make these resources available for others whose needs may be greater than ours.
In addition, over-consumption also pushes up the prices of all affected goods and services. In the case of oil, for example, rising oil prices will directly and indirectly affect the prices of all goods and services, merely due to the higher costs of transportation, which uses fuel procured at a higher price. By reducing consumption, the reverse is true, and all prices are expected to reduce. This will provide great relief to large sections of society struggling with economic challenges.
Some might argue that they have a constitutional right to consume, and cannot be deprived of this privilege, since they have the means and resources to consume. It is true that it may not be possible to enforce the reduction in consumption. It is more a moral responsibility, where a concern for the environment as a whole, and an equal concern for all sections of society is involved.
Society provides ample opportunity to all members to reduce consumption. In case some members do not reduce consumption, and since the resources are not infinite, the remaining members of society will be forced to consume less. At some point, as the resources get exhausted, all members of society will be forced to consume less. This applies even when the prices of the finite resources rise to enormous levels due to the stocks becoming depleted and scarce.