The ease of online shopping and the prevalence of sales events like Black Friday and Prime Day have made it challenging for many consumers to resist impulse buying, which can have an impact on both our finances and the environment. If you want to adopt a more thoughtful approach to shopping, the following six tips can help you become a smarter shopper, save money, and reduce your environmental footprint.
1. Consider the Reason Behind Your Purchase
Before making a purchase, it’s important to ask yourself why you want the item. Differentiating between necessities, items that bring joy, and purchases that may lead to regret can help you avoid over-buying for emotional reasons. Considering the environmental impact and the longevity of the item can also guide your decision-making process and lead to more mindful shopping habits.
2. Carefully Review Your Cart at Checkout
Take your time during the checkout process to prevent the need for returns or exchanges. Confirming the details, dimensions, and specifications of the items in your cart and researching product reviews can help you avoid purchasing items that are not a good fit for your needs.
3. Embrace Secondhand Shopping or DIY
Opting for pre-owned items instead of new ones can help reduce the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and shipping new products. Utilize secondhand stores, rental services, and online marketplaces to find quality items at a fraction of the original cost. Additionally, consider DIY alternatives for everyday items to minimize unnecessary purchases.
4. Extend the Lifespan of Your Possessions
Prioritize repairing or repurposing items before considering replacements or upgrades. Extending the lifespan of your belongings not only reduces the frequency of new purchases but also encourages a more mindful approach to consumption.
5. Opt for Grouped and Slower Delivery Options
Consolidating your online purchases and choosing slower delivery options can help minimize the environmental impact of frequent deliveries and returns. Planning ahead and selecting efficient delivery methods can contribute to more sustainable shopping practices.
6. Invest in Durable, Long-Lasting Items
Choose quality products that are built to last, even if they come with a higher price tag. Investing in durable items not only reduces the need for frequent replacements but also proves to be a more sustainable choice in the long run.
This article’s content has been reviewed and edited by Christine Cyr Clisset and Ben Frumin for accuracy and clarity.
Sources
1. Lorraine Whitmarsh, environmental psychologist and professor at the University of Bath, Zoom interview, September 19, 2022
2. Kimberly Nicholas, associate professor of sustainability science at Lund University and author of Under the Sky We Make: How to Be Human in a Warming World, Zoom interview, October 4, 2022
