As Black Friday approaches, Mike Smith, founder of Zero Co shares the devastating impact of overconsumption on our planet and offers tips to adopt a more sustainable approach to generating profit and buying products.
As the founder of Zero Co and someone who has spent the past four years cleaning some of the world’s dirtiest oceans, rivers, and beaches, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of overconsumption on our planet.
While I understand the necessity for businesses to generate profit, it’s imperative that we transition to a more sustainable version of capitalism—one that balances people, planet, and profit. Black Friday and Cyber Monday epitomise unsustainable consumption, and their environmental impact is staggering.
The Environmental Toll of Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become global phenomena, driving a frenzy of consumerism with promises of unbeatable deals. However, beneath the allure of discounts lies a hidden cost: significant damage to our environment. From increased carbon emissions to a surge in waste, these sales events exacerbate environmental challenges at a time when sustainable living has never been more critical.
Carbon Footprint of Black Friday
The transportation of goods purchased during Black Friday and Cyber Monday significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Deliveries from Black Friday sales in the UK alone are estimated to generate over 429,000 metric tons of CO₂, equivalent to the emissions from 435 return flights between London and New York. Globally, the numbers are even more alarming, adding significantly to our collective carbon footprint.
Transitioning to sustainable development and renewable energy in logistics is crucial to mitigating these impacts. However, these changes require systemic efforts from businesses and consumers alike to prioritize green technology and energy efficiency over short-term gains.
Waste and Plastic Pollution
The waste generated during Black Friday and Cyber Monday is equally concerning. It’s estimated that 80 per cent of items purchased, along with their packaging, are discarded after just a few uses. Much of this waste ends up in landfills or, worse, pollutes natural ecosystems.
Plastic pollution is a particularly glaring issue. Most products come encased in layers of plastic, contributing to the 141 million tonnes of plastic packaging produced globally each year. This over-reliance on plastic highlights the need for eco-friendly products, sustainable packaging, and robust recycling programs to divert waste from landfills and oceans. Without systemic change, we risk worsening an already dire crisis.
The Fast-Fashion Fallout
The fast-fashion industry thrives during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Tempted by “buy one, get one free” deals or heavily discounted items, consumers purchase clothes in vast quantities. Yet, the true cost of fast fashion is felt long after these sales.
The production of fast fashion depletes renewable resources, drives unsustainable agriculture practices like cotton farming, and contributes to massive greenhouse gas emissions. Shockingly, the fashion industry is responsible for 10 per cent of global CO₂ emissions, more than international flights and maritime shipping combined.
Much of this clothing is worn only a handful of times before being discarded, often ending up in landfills or shipped overseas to countries ill-equipped to manage the waste. Sustainable fashion practices, such as choosing high-quality, long-lasting garments, are a key climate change solution to this issue.
By adopting a zero-waste lifestyle and supporting sustainable fashion brands, consumers can reduce their impact on biodiversity conservation, water pollution, and energy inefficiency.
Building a Sustainable Future
The environmental damage caused by Black Friday and Cyber Monday underscores the urgent need for a cultural shift. Sustainable living isn’t just about reducing individual consumption; it’s about embracing a system where economic activity aligns with environmental conservation. Here are steps we can take to foster a more sustainable model of consumption:
Support Eco-Friendly Products: choose products made with renewable resources and designed for durability. Look for certifications that prioritise environmental sustainability, from brands such as Biome Eco Stores, Flora & Fauna and Little Eco Shop.
Reduce Carbon Footprint: consider alternatives to fast shipping, support local businesses, and minimise unnecessary purchases. Exemplary brands include Who Gives A Crap, Koh and Zero Co.
Prioritise Recycling Programs: reuse and recycle wherever possible, ensuring packaging and products don’t end up in landfills. Brands include Close the Loop, Greenfinder and Terracycle.
Promote Renewable Energy: advocate for businesses to adopt clean energy practices and green technology in their operations. Companies such as Powershop, Solar Analytics and Red Energy are great options.
Adopt Sustainable Fashion: choose timeless, high-quality clothing over fleeting trends to help reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions. To get you started, Luna & Sun, Outland Denim and Kowtow produce clothing that focuses on sustainability and timeless design.
A Call for Responsible Capitalism
As a business owner, I understand the importance of generating profit. However, we must redefine capitalism to ensure it supports sustainable development. By balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, we can create a future where people, planet, and profit coexist. Consumers play a vital role in driving this change by demanding transparency, supporting companies committed to sustainability, and making choices that reflect their values.
In the end, Black Friday doesn’t have to be rubbish. By reevaluating our relationship with consumption and adopting sustainable practices, we can reduce the environmental impact of these sales events. Together, we can work towards a cleaner, greener, and more equitable world.
