Black Friday has long been synonymous with unbeatable deals and a frenzy of consumerism, but it's also a day with significant environmental and social consequences. Overconsumption, waste, and the exploitation of workers often dominate the narrative. However, Black Friday doesn’t have to mean choosing between savings and sustainability. At Cheeks Ahoy, we want to reimagine this shopping phenomenon to align with eco-friendly values. Let’s explore how we can make Black Friday green.
The Ugly Side of Black Friday
While the sales can be tempting, the environmental costs of Black Friday are steep:
- Increased Landfill Waste: Many Black Friday purchases, especially low-quality items, quickly end up in landfills. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 12 million tons of e-waste are generated annually in the U.S. alone, much of it from hastily replaced electronics.
- Carbon Footprint from Shipping: Online shopping surges during Black Friday, and expedited shipping options increase carbon emissions by as much as 50%.
- Overconsumption: Studies show that 50% of purchases on Black Friday are made impulsively, often resulting in items that aren’t needed or valued.
- Poor Working Conditions: The pressure to meet Black Friday demand often leads to unfair labor practices and stressful environments for retail workers.
A Greener Perspective on Black Friday
Despite its challenges, Black Friday can be an opportunity to make environmentally responsible choices. By shopping with intention, you can save money while reducing your environmental footprint. Here's how:
1. Save on Zero Waste Products
The attractive discounts on zero waste products mean that now is the best time to make the switch to reusables. Making small changes can significantly reduce waste. Did you know a single reusable cloth towel can replace up to 1,500 paper towels over its lifespan? Similarly, one person using reusable shopping bags instead of plastic can save around 22,000 bags over their lifetime.
2. Shop Durable and High-Quality Items
Avoid the trap of buying low-quality items that will break or wear out quickly. Instead, invest in products designed to last. For example, Cheeks Ahoy’s reusable products not only reduce waste but are built to withstand years of use, making them a smarter financial and environmental choice.
3. Choose Brands Committed to Sustainability
Look for brands that align with your values, prioritize eco-friendly materials, and use sustainable packaging. At Cheeks Ahoy, all orders ship plastic-free and are thoughtfully packed using repurposed packing material, reinforcing our commitment to a greener planet.
4. Take Advantage of Green Friday Sales
Cheeks Ahoy's “Let’s Turn Black Friday Green” sale offers purposeful savings on zero-waste essentials, making it easier than ever to embrace sustainable living. Now through November 20, we are offering 25% off sitewide, so it's the perfect time to buy for gifting or upgrading your own eco-friendly routine.
5. Practice Mindful Shopping
Before you hit “buy,” pause and ask yourself:
- Do I need this item?
- Will I use it often?
- Is it durable or reusable?
Answering these questions can help you avoid impulse purchases and focus on meaningful additions to your life.
6. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
For online orders, consider choosing slower shipping options, which are more environmentally friendly. Additionally, some retailers offer carbon offset programs that let you contribute to eco-positive projects. Cheeks Ahoy has recently partnered with The Good API to plant a tree with every order, offsetting emissions, and ensuring a greener tomorrow.
Why Small Changes Matter
Switching to zero waste products has a ripple effect on the environment:
- Reduced Landfill Contributions: If 1 in 10 households switched to reusable paper towels, over 1.5 billion pounds of paper waste could be prevented annually.
- Lower CO₂ Emissions: Using a reusable water bottle instead of single-use plastic saves enough energy to light a 60-watt bulb for six hours.
- Ocean Preservation: Reusable items reduce the demand for single-use plastics, which account for 60-80% of marine debris.
Turning Black Friday Green
This year, let’s use Black Friday as an opportunity to reflect on our buying habits and make conscious, impactful choices. At Cheeks Ahoy, our mantra is simple: “Let’s Turn Black Friday Green.” Together, we can redefine this shopping event—not as a time for mindless consumption, but as a chance to invest in a healthier planet and a more sustainable future.
Ready to shop sustainably? Explore our Green Friday deals and discover how small changes can make a big impact!