Black Friday, originating from American traditions and happening the day after Thanksgiving, results in British citizens spending around £3 billion annually. According to a YouGov survey conducted for Keep Britain Tidy, 54% of adults have participated in Black Friday or Cyber Monday shopping, but 42% believe it has a negative impact on the environment. In the UK alone in 2020, the CO2 emissions from the home delivery of Black Friday purchases amounted to an estimated 429,000 metric tonnes.
To combat the consumerism associated with Black Friday, Keep Britain Tidy is launching the Buy Nothing New Month campaign, scheduled for November. The goal is to encourage individuals to save money and be mindful of their environmental impact. The organization recently introduced a revised waste hierarchy as part of their efforts to educate the public on waste prevention and conscious consumption.
Research by the charity revealed that 58% of UK adults who made Black Friday purchases used credit cards, while 14% opted for flexible payment plans and 6% relied on store credit. Additionally, 8% admitted that they did not really need the items they purchased. Keep Britain Tidy emphasized that 63% of UK adults support initiatives like Buy Nothing New Month, promoting alternatives such as reusing, repairing, or purchasing preloved items.
Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, the chief executive of Keep Britain Tidy, highlighted the significance of addressing the waste issue, particularly during the holiday season when consumerism peaks. She emphasized that the public is becoming more aware of the unsustainable nature of excessive consumption and is willing to participate in challenges like buying nothing new for a month to benefit the planet.
In conclusion, the impact of Black Friday on landfill waste in the UK is a pressing issue that requires collective action. By promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about mindful consumption, organizations like Keep Britain Tidy are striving to reduce the environmental consequences of excessive shopping habits. It is essential for individuals to consider the long-term effects of their purchasing decisions and support initiatives that prioritize waste reduction and environmental preservation. Share this article with others to spread awareness about the importance of responsible consumption and its positive impact on the planet.
