10 Tips for a Greener Friday

How to make Black Friday less frightening, more Eco-Friendly

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are known for massive sales, but they also carry a hidden but hefty environmental cost. With millions of items bought (and sometimes quickly discarded), Black Friday has become one of the most wasteful days of the year. In 2023, Americans alone spent over $9.8 billion shopping online Black Friday sales, creating mountains of single-use plastic, cardboard packaging, and emissions from doorstep deliveries.

It doesn’t have to bee that way! Despite these environmental downsides, it’s possible to approach Black Friday in a way that respects the planet. Here are 10 ways to keep your shopping greener this year!

1. Plan Ahead with a Sustainable Shopping List

Creating a shopping list well in advance is one of the most effective ways to avoid impulse buys. List the items you truly need and consider waiting for brands that prioritize sustainability—those using eco-friendly materials, low-waste packaging, and fair labor practices. This approach can reduce overconsumption and help you make mindful choices.

2. Support “Green Friday” Brands

Choose brands like B Corps that make sustainability a priority. Many offer products made from recycled materials, engage in carbon offsetting, or use ethical production practices. This is especially important in sectors like fashion, which accounts for nearly 10% of global emissions and leads to enormous waste. 

3. Ask Key Questions Before You Buy

Ask yourself a few essential questions before you hit “checkout”:

• How often will I use this item?
• How will it arrive at my home? 
• How will I dispose of it and its packaging when its useful life ends?
• Can I do it Greener?!

Reflecting on these questions can help you avoid short-lived purchases and choose products that add long-term value to your life.

4. Seek Out Reusables and Avoid Single-Use Items

The convenience of disposable products comes with a cost. On Black Friday, be wary of “deal” items that you’ll use only once or that will need to be quickly replaced. Instead, invest in reusables, such as natural beeswax wraps, plastic-free sponges, or long-lasting household items that save money and resources over time.

5. Consider the Full Lifecycle of Your Purchase

From production to disposal, every product has an environmental footprint. Opt for items made from recyclable or biodegradable materials, and choose brands that offer take-back programs to handle disposal responsibly. Beeswax Wraps are fully compostable and can be used for up to 2 years, making them a great alternative to single-use plastic food storage.

6. Opt for Digital Gifts

If you’re looking to reduce waste entirely, consider digital or experience-based gifts. Online courses, eBooks, or subscriptions can offer meaningful value with zero packaging. You might also look into gifting memberships to environmental charities, supporting both your loved ones and the planet.

7. Skip the Hype for Timeless, High-Quality Products

The “fear of missing out” on a great sale is real. But before you rush into a purchase, consider whether the item is timeless or likely to last. Many fast-fashion and tech gadgets bought on Black Friday have short lifespans, leading to a quick trip to the landfill. Instead, look for items with durable construction and versatile functionality that you’ll value long-term.

8. Make a Positive Impact on Giving Tuesday

For those seeking a different kind of holiday spirit, Giving Tuesday (December 3rd, 2024) encourages charitable giving as an alternative to consumerism. If you’re upgrading household items or clothes, consider donating your gently used belongings to others in need. Volunteering your time or making donations to sustainable initiatives can also amplify the positive impact.

9. Choose Low-Carbon Delivery Options

Online shopping often leads to high emissions from shipping, especially when everyone wants their items fast. Many retailers now offer slower, consolidated shipping options that reduce the environmental impact. Look for eco-conscious companies that prioritize low-carbon or offset delivery methods, and locally sourced materials, so your purchases make a smaller footprint.

10. Embrace “Buy Nothing” Challenges

Finally, for those who want to go all-in on sustainability, consider a “Buy Nothing” Black Friday. Instead of shopping, spend the day outdoors or give back to your community. Local park cleanups or volunteering for environmental causes offer a chance to connect with nature and make a positive impact, no purchases required.

Looking for more tips for mindful and memorable sustainable holidays? Read here!