The holidays are a busy time for everyone, so it can be easy to forget about sustainability and our carbon footprint. Luckily there are some simple changes you can make to your holiday shopping routine that are easy to implement and will make a difference! If you’re looking for ways to make your holiday shopping experience more eco-friendly, we suggest the following:
Whenever possible, it’s best to shop from local vendors instead of big box stores. This keeps the money within your community and cuts down on shipping and packaging. Supporting small businesses is a win-win for you and the business owner!
No matter the gift you have in mind, there are likely many options to choose from – from different brands, shops, etc. You can research the various options and buy from a more sustainable source. This could look like companies that use sustainable packaging for their products or companies that pay their workers a fair wage. Setting aside some time to research your options can make a big difference.
Shopping online is not only convenient, but it can be a good way to stay eco-friendly too. By shopping from the comfort of your own home, you reduce gas emissions from traveling around to different vendors. Additionally, more and more online retailers are offering environmentally friendly shipping options. These options may include using recycled packaging for shipping, shipping plastic-free, or waiting a few extra days to receive your item to ensure a shipment is full before departing.
This tip is nothing new – we know that plastics are a big problem for the environment. Say no to plastic bags when shopping in brick-and-mortar stores by bringing your own cloth or reusable bags.
Did you know a lot of wrapping paper can’t be recycled? Unfortunately, a lot of it ends up in landfills. Avoid buying wrapping paper this year by giving gifts in reusable gift bags or using paper from around your home (old newspapers work great!).
We hope these tips inspire you to make an eco-friendly change this holiday season. Remember, every bit counts toward making a more sustainable earth!
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