Starboard is strongly against Black Friday and fast, low-quality shopping. Here are some reasons why, as well as some summons for everyone while entering this crazy-consuming day.
Reasons to avoid Black Friday
- Emissions: In GB alone, shipping of goods ordered on Black Friday releases 429,000 metric tons of greenhouse gases; equal to driving an average diesel car 63 000 times around the world.
- Waste: Approximately 80% of products bought on Black Friday is thrown away after zero to a few uses, in addition to all packaging they are wrapped in.
- Ethics: A huge problem within the fast shopping industry is the employers working conditions in the huge enterprises earning on these days. Let’s avoid supporting inhumane industries.
- Save money: Consumers earning < $50,000 ~ plan to spend $320 between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Consumers earning > $100,000 ~ plan to spend $650. Save money.
The shopping survey
Get at least three yes’s before you buy something:
- Do you (or the one you buy it for) need the product? (or do you just want it)
- Do you save money on this purchase? (or do you spend them)
- Is the product high-quality and long-lasting?
- Is it impossible to get ahold of this product second-hand, still with good quality?
- Are the emissions and human impact worth the perks of this purchase?
- Is this the best and most ethical way to get ahold of this product?
More frightening shopping facts
- Throughout the year, the shipping of goods accounts for around 4% of global GHG emissions.
- In 2019 we generated 53,6 million tonnes of electronic waste.
- 3 tonnes of clothes end up in landfills every single second, thus 85% of the yearly production.
- We wear our garments an average of 7-10 times before throwing them out.
- It takes ~ 2600 litres of water to produce 1 t-shirt.
- 95.2% of Shein clothing contains virgin plastics.
- The fashion industry releases double the emissions of the total flight and maritime transport industry, accounting for up to 10% of the world’s total GHG emissions, according to Insider.
Remember- You do not save money on buying things you do not need.
Note – for some people, Black Friday is one of the few chances they have of getting things they need. Shame the concept, be careful with shaming the people, but avoid supporting it if you can.
Learn about Eco-Friendly Habits. We wish you a very Blue Friday!
