UPDATE: With the holiday shopping season in full swing, consumers are facing a critical question: is online shopping harming the environment? As of December 8, 2025, reports confirm that over 2 billion packages are expected to ship across the United States during this festive period, leading to a surge in packaging waste.
More families, like that of reader Sarah, are turning to online shopping for specific items on their holiday wish lists. However, the environmental impact is significant. The good news? You can shop online while minimizing your carbon footprint with these actionable tips.
Shop Secondhand First: Before making a new purchase, explore secondhand marketplaces such as eBay, ThredUp, and Facebook Marketplace. You can often find high-quality items—ranging from clothing to sports gear—at a fraction of the cost and with a much lower environmental impact. Using a Google reverse image search can help you find secondhand versions of the exact items you want.
Support Local Makers: If buying new is necessary, consider supporting independent and small online sellers. Platforms like Etsy allow you to shop conveniently while ensuring your dollars go to local businesses rather than large corporations.
Choose Sustainable Packaging: Opt for vendors who prioritize eco-friendly packaging. Many companies are transitioning to recyclable materials. If you encounter excessive plastic, don’t hesitate to reach out to the company for better packaging options—customer feedback can drive significant changes.
Avoid Wasteful Returns: The ease of returns can tempt consumers to overorder, but many returned items are not restocked and end up in landfills. To combat this, buy thoughtfully, choose quality products, and limit returns whenever possible.
Recycle Your Packaging: Once your gifts arrive, ensure you recycle properly. Many materials can be recycled curbside, including cardboard boxes and plain paper envelopes. For harder-to-recycle items, such as bubble wrap and plastic packing pillows, visit Eco-Cycle’s Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials (CHaRM) for proper disposal options.
As the holiday season progresses, it’s crucial for consumers to be mindful of their shopping habits. You don’t have to eliminate online shopping entirely—just shop with intention and recycle effectively for a more sustainable holiday experience.
For expert advice on Zero Waste practices, reach out to Eco-Cycle at [email protected] or call them at 303-444-6634.
Start making these changes today to enjoy a lower-waste holiday season!
