Everyone has heard of Black Friday but this yearly sale is definitely not environmentally friendly or sustainable. But what is Green Friday?
As consumers, we're all familiar with the chaos and frenzy that Black Friday brings each year. The sale that came across from America, it was originally the Thanksgiving version of Boxing Day sales. However, this yearly pre Christmas sale causes significant waste & encourages throw away culture. But in recent years, a more sustainable and ethical alternative has been gaining traction: Green Friday.
What Is Green Friday?
In contrast to Black Friday, Green Friday is a movement that promotes conscious consumerism and sustainability. Instead of the traditional consumerist approach of buying more and more, Green Friday encourages people to make mindful and eco-friendly choices when shopping. It's a day for consumers to prioritise products that have a minimal environmental impact, support local businesses, and engage in eco-conscious purchasing.
The Importance of Green Friday
- Sustainable Consumption: One of the primary reasons for the importance of Green Friday is its focus on sustainable consumption. Traditional Black Friday sales often lead to overconsumption, which can result in increased waste and environmental harm. Green Friday emphasises the importance of buying only what you need and choosing products that are made with eco-friendly materials or have a longer lifespan.
- Supporting Local Businesses: Green Friday encourages consumers to support local businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs. By doing so, you can contribute to your local economy, reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping, and help small businesses thrive.
- Reducing Waste: Black Friday sales often lead to the disposal of older items, creating an influx of waste. Green Friday, on the other hand, promotes recycling, upcycling, and responsible disposal. It encourages people to think twice before discarding something in favour of a new purchase.
- Ethical Choices: Green Friday is also about making ethical choices when it comes to the products you buy. It advocates for fair labour practices, cruelty-free products, and items that support charitable causes. This way, your purchases can have a positive impact on society and the environment.
- Long-Term Benefits: By participating in Green Friday, you are not just making a one-time effort to shop sustainably. Instead, you are adopting a lifestyle that considers the long-term impact of your purchasing decisions. This sustainable approach extends beyond a single day and becomes a year-round practice.
While Black Friday has long been associated with massive sales and discounts, the rise of Green Friday demonstrates a shift in consumer consciousness towards sustainable and ethical choices. It's a reminder that we can shop for our needs without compromising the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. By choosing to participate in Green Friday, we can collectively make a positive impact and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
This year Green Friday falls on Friday 24th November 2023.