Why Black Friday Is Bad For The Environment: Unpacking The Ecological Impact

A study co-authored by Purnell in 2019 shed light on the environmental impact of Black Friday. This study revealed a concerning statistic: approximately 80 percent of the products bought during Black Friday sales, along with their often excessive plastic packaging, ultimately find their way into landfills or are incinerated. This waste disposal issue exacerbates environmental concerns, contributing to pollution and resource depletion. As of November 29, 2022, this issue continues to be a pressing concern that requires attention and sustainable solutions.

Is Black Friday Beneficial or Harmful to the Environment?

Black Friday, known for its heavily discounted products and billions of dollars in revenue, is a shopping event that generates significant economic activity. However, beneath the surface, this sales extravaganza also leaves a concerning environmental footprint. The surge in consumerism during Black Friday contributes to heightened carbon emissions and the generation of massive amounts of waste, posing significant environmental challenges. In this article, we will delve into the environmental downsides of Black Friday and provide insights on how individuals can adopt more sustainable shopping practices. This discussion is relevant in the context of November 14, 2022, and beyond, as we explore the intersection of consumerism and environmental responsibility.

Black Friday, the annual shopping frenzy, raises concerns about its sustainability due to several key factors. Not only does this shopping extravaganza contribute to increased emissions of greenhouse gases, exacerbating the climate crisis, but it also generates a substantial amount of waste. This waste encompasses a wide range of materials, including cardboard boxes, plastic bags, and excess packaging. Essentially, the surge in consumer purchases during Black Friday not only leads to more carbon emissions but also results in a significant uptick in the volume of discarded items, as shoppers are not just acquiring products but also the associated packaging materials. These combined factors highlight the environmental challenges posed by Black Friday and underscore the need for more sustainable shopping practices.