G.A.S. is an acronym for the Italian expression Gruppi di Acquisto Solidale (Ethical purchasing groups). Usually, a buying group is set up from a number of consumers who cooperate in order to buy food and other commonly used goods directly from the producers or from big retailers at a discounted rate.

The meaning of the word "Solidale" (Solidal)

When a buying group does not search for the ultimate discounted rate, but instead puts people and environment before profit the group becomes a Solidal buyers group. As a consequence, in a Solidal buying group the guidelines in the choice of the products and the producers are respect for the environment and the solidarity between the members of the group, the traders and the producers.

These guidelines lead to the choice of local products (in order to minimize the environmental impact of the transport), fair-trade goods (in order to respect disadvantaged producers by promoting their human rights, in particular those of women, children and indigenous people) and reusable or eco-compatible goods (to promote a sustainable lifestyle).

Motivation

Every G.A.S. has its specific motivation, but usually all groups draw their roots from a critical approach to today's global economical model and consumer lifestyle; individuals that feel the unfairness in this model and are searching for a practical alternative can find reciprocal aid and advice by joining solidal buying groups.