What if you can’t find that one gift in a local store? The next best (most sustainable) option, depending on your transportation habits, is probably online shopping. Good news – online vendors are offering deals comparable to Black Friday on Cyber Monday!
The advantages to Cyber Monday?
- The carbon footprint of a large shipping truck is significantly less than that of individual drivers.
- The ability to Google and research deals.
- Shop in your PJ’s! With leftover food from Thanksgiving!
The disadvantages?
- The packaging – some things come in several layers of cardboard and bubble wrap.
- Shipping costs and time, although many vendors offer free shipping.
So, if you take public transportation, bike, or walk, shopping in person may actually be more sustainable. However, if you rely on your car, give Cyber Monday a try.