What once was just an American tradition is now a global event. Black Friday marks a season of unlimited sales and purchases and witnesses frenzied consumerism. It is a shopping extravaganza known for jaw-dropping discounts and massive deals celebrated on the Friday after Thanksgiving.

But what costs less for us is costing the environment big time. Countless shipping and high return rates due to e-commerce purchases lead to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

In addition, countless orders also mean an unmanageable quantity of packaging waste that is often not adequately disposed of.  In such a setting, we must transition from Black Friday to Green Friday. Green Friday prioritizes sustainability and sustainable products. It strongly stresses the importance of eco-conscious shopping and shopping only what’s needed.

Make Black Friday Celebrations Sustainable - Here’s How!

Let us discuss a few ways in which we can practise ethical consumption while also celebrating Black Friday the green way- 

• Purchase with a purpose

Buying less but smartly is the key. Plan before you purchase. You do not want to buy products that are useless to you. This not only reduces waste generated but also shrinks carbon footprint. Only buy when you are super sure about the product’s requirements.

• Curb your impulse

Tackling whimsical purchases can reduce the quantity of waste generated. Buying just for the sake of buying is pointless. Instead, ask yourself, “Do I need this?”. This will help you make mindful buying decisions and more eco-conscious choices. You can always stay alert for deals that you desperately need. This will help manage overconsumption while also allowing you to save some money.

• Follow sustainable brands

Avoid getting overwhelmed with a wide range of brands and choices. Keep your eye on brands that are trying to make a difference. Research about the companies to see if their missions and values align with sustainability goals. This way, you can motivate the brands and contribute to the cause yourself.

Furthermore, use organically produced products free from chemicals and synthetics. Doing so can also help keep your physical health intact. Also, enquire to check if the company you wish to purchase from has sustainable packaging options.

• Go small and local

Go local whenever possible. Large amounts of long-distance shipping contribute to air pollution and high emissions during huge sales events. Quit purchasing from the big chains and connect with small and local communities to enjoy customized buying experiences. Carpool with friends while traveling to the shops. Small efforts count. By going small, you can also help expand your community businesses.

• Consider combining shipments and skipping rush deliveries

If you are planning to purchase more than one product, make sure you club multiple shipments together. Aiming for a single shipment significantly reduces waste, emissions, transportation costs, and fuel consumption. Thus, avail the benefit of combined shipments whenever possible.

Also, avoid opting for rush or expedited deliveries unless you need the delivery urgently. Doing this ensures that less efficient transportation systems are not employed to bring the product to your doorstep.

• Pick quality over quantity

Checking the durability of a product before making the purchase is vital if you want to trim waste to the minimum. Non-durable goods are cheap but do not last long. So, consider spending more than you would and save more in the long run.

• Check out vintage shops

Purchasing second hand goods reduces the demand for newer goods in the markets. It matters because the production of goods causes some amount of pollution. Look out for marketplaces or online shops that deal with secondhand goods. They might have something that polished stores might never be able to offer you.

• Don’t forget to recycle your old gadgets

You could be one of those gadget lovers who is bound to get new electronic devices on a super sale. If so, make sure you are recycling your old belongings the right way.

Conclusion 

Buy and discard consciously. Recycle anything that can be recycled. Reuse anything that can be reused. If not more, talk about how acting a little thoughtfully can provide for a greener planet.

Educating yourself and others around you can aid in promoting the practice of a circular economy. Simple and level-headed steps that involve responsible shopping are the only things needed to celebrate Black Friday the proper way.

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