One thing’s for certain: online shoppers return three times as much merchandise as brick-and-mortar shoppers, which drives up emissions and creates further package waste. (Not to mention, 5.8 billion pounds of returned merchandise ends up in landfill each year, according to Optoro, a logistics company that specializes in returned merchandise.) Consider your purchases before you make them, and if you’re uncertain, see if you can test out or try on a product in a store near you before you buy it.
How can I adopt more climate-friendly online shopping habits?
How you order online can make a difference. Rather than placing small orders throughout the week or month, take time to consider your purchases and make them all at once. Some retailers give customers the option to bundle items together, which might take longer to ship, but uses less packaging and reduces the number of delivery trips.
If the option is available, avoid same or next day delivery. Delaying a delivery by three to four days can reduce emissions from anywhere from 40% to 56%, Rajagopalan says.
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