Avoid Black Friday sales by doing these things instead
Before you get swept up in Black Friday deals and holiday shopping frenzy, pause and take a breath. Sales are designed to trigger impulse buying, not to meet your actual needs.
Holiday Waste in Canada
- 99% of the stuff we buy is thrown away within six months https://unhabitat.org
- 25–45% more household waste is generated during the holiday season compared to other times of the year [toogoodtogo.com]
- Nearly 74% of Canadians admit to throwing away food after big holiday meals [toogoodtogo.com]
- Zero Waste Canada reports only 1% of gifts are still used after six months
What should you consider before diving into Black Friday deals?
Instead of falling prey to consumerism just because there's a discount, take inventory of what you and your friends and family truly need. Consider the most meaningful gifts you can offer: your time, your skills, your presence, and meaningful experiences.
How can you give generously this holiday season?
- Teach someone a craft
- Offer to help with a project
- Share a home-cooked meal
- Spend quality time together
These gifts of service and connection create lasting memories without adding to the cycle of consumption and waste.
How can you make a difference this Black Friday?
This Black Friday and the upcoming gifting season, let's change the narrative around generous giving by embracing sustainability. Rather than getting caught up in the whirlwind of excessive shopping, let's prioritize meaningful connections and find ways to give back to our loved ones and communities.