Make Your Next Shopping Trip Green!

– Shivaan Darda

Online shopping is the current trend, but we can’t deny the satisfaction of retail therapy at a mall or a boutique. While it is surely greener than the digital version, it does come with its share of challenges to being eco-friendly. So here are a few tips to ensure I minimise my carbon footprint while shopping offline.

1. Tote It: As a thumb rule, I avoid single-use plastic bags. However, I avoid sturdy plastic and paper bags too. Regular totes are ideal for carrying small or heavy loads, and they look stylish as well. I even opt for eco-friendly packaging options, offered by many popular as well as small brands.

2. Vocal for Local: Since the government has started this initiative, I have found a host of options that are made locally. This ensures lower emissions from transportation, as well as good quality. Of course, as a preference, I look for items made from recycled or eco-friendly materials.

3. Bulk-Out: When buying essentials, you can go for bulk, which minimises the amount of packaging per unit of product. Plus, it could save money and reduce the frequency of shopping trips, further lowering your environmental impact.

4. Lists, Lists, Lists: Avoid impulse purchases, and be mindful of consumption. That’s where lists make a huge difference. Having a handy list, even with indulgences, reduces last-minute purchases. You can even have a list of clothing or grocery items at home, this can help avoid repetitive purchases.
Reducing our need is a perfect solution to going green, but often that can be tough for most. Hence, these small tips can go a long way in getting into the habit of being sustainable.