And yes, I struggle with it every time. There are actually people that do these calculations although who knows how accurate they can be. For instance, I produce in China because MEC did a huge study and found out that it is actually less harmful on the environment if you produce in the same country as the fibre and yarn is produced and then just ship the resulting production… however, does that get negated if I fly there once or twice per year to check on things and confirm all is to my standards? Who knows… right? I can only do my small part and trust that it is better than the alternative for now.
And yes, people need to use their hearts and their heads more when it comes to these issues… we buy so much and toss what we dont’ want or “recycle” it without another thought… it has to stop.

After all, every action could be considered “wasteful.” He says: “We are called to live according to what our hearts know. That is the only sure guide. That is also a true revolution. The mental calculations we call ethics, minimizing your carbon footprint, etc., none of those are a sure guide. Like, should I fly to California to co-create a transformational event? Well, it burns a lot of jet fuel. How can I possibly add up all the costs and benefits? It is impossible. When we try to choose from the head, we get into a maze of indecision, and even when we do choose we have no certainty and no courage. So now it is time to listen to our heart knowing.”

http://matadornetwork.com/bnt/2010/06/18/interview-charles-eisenstein-on-the-ascent-of-humanity/