It's that time of year again! The holidays are just around the corner and retailers are preparing for the biggest shopping day of the year: Black Friday. While Black Friday is traditionally a time to score great deals on gifts, it can also be a time to think about how your purchases impact the environment and the planet. This year, let's pledge to make more eco conscious choices and shop with the planet & animals in mind. Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Do your research beforehand - Take some time to research eco friendly brands and products before heading out to the stores on Black Friday. This way, you'll know exactly what you're looking for and won't be tempted by all of the other "deals" that aren't really all that great for the planet. Not sure where to start? Check out this list of 100+ sustainable and ethical brands that will help you shop more consciously this holiday season.
2. Bring your own reusable shopping bags - According to a report from the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans throw away approximately 1 billion plastic shopping bags every year. And while many retailers are starting to offer reusable alternatives, it's always best to be prepared and bring your own bags just in case. Not only will this help reduce waste, but it will also help you avoid those pesky plastic bag fees! Win-win.
3. Shop vegan, eco-friendly or secondhand whenever possible - One of the best ways to reduce your impact on the planet is to buy secondhand items instead of new and look at eco-conscious and vegan brands that don't put a heavy carbon footprint on the earth. Not only does this extend the life of products that already exist, but it also keeps them out of landfills where they would eventually end up. Of course, not everything can or should be bought used (think underwear or socks, or skincare and make-up), but if you're open to it, secondhand shopping can be a great way to go green this holiday season.
This Black Friday, let's pledge to go GREEN and do better by the planet and shop with consciousness and intention. With a little bit of planning, it's easy to make more eco friendly choices that will help reduce our impact on the environment.
What are you waiting for? Get started today.
