ADA UNLU
The term “Black Friday” was first used in the 1960s by Philadelphia traffic police to describe the chaotic crowds and traffic jams that followed Thanksgiving. Over time, retailers redefined the term, and today it represents massive discounts in stores and online, celebrated worldwide.
Cyber Monday, the online version of Black Friday, extends the shopping frenzy into the following Monday. Initially limited to just one day, this sales phenomenon now stretches back to October, with weeks of promotions leading up to the event.
The Environmental Cost of Black Friday
One of the biggest problems with Black Friday is the overconsumption it promotes. The fashion industry, particularly fast fashion, is already one of the most polluting sectors, and Black Friday exacerbates this issue. More production, more transportation, and more waste significantly increase environmental harm.
In 2023, during Black Friday week, 1.2 million tons of CO2 were emitted across Europe due to goods transported by trucks—94% higher than in an average week.
The impact is not limited to deliveries. The entire product lifecycle, from manufacturing and packaging to shipping and waste management, amplifies the environmental damage.
Black Friday’s steep discounts and low prices often lead people to buy items they don’t need. According to Green Alliance, 80% of products purchased on Black Friday—including their packaging—are discarded after just a few uses or, in some cases, without being used at all. In the U.S., waste increases by 25% between Black Friday and New Year’s.
Additionally, many returned products aren’t resold, especially when companies use Black Friday to clear out inventory. These items frequently end up in landfills, further contributing to waste.
Black Friday’s Human Impact
Black Friday doesn’t just impact the environment—it also affects people. Workers involved in producing these discounted items often face low wages and poor working conditions, trapping them in cycles of poverty.
Delivery and warehouse workers, especially those employed by giants like Amazon, face intense pressure. Many are forced to work 12-16 hour shifts during this period. In 2023, Amazon employees in 30 countries threatened to strike on Black Friday, demanding better pay and working conditions.
For consumers, Black Friday perpetuates the capitalist illusion that “more possessions equal more happiness,” leading to impulsive purchases that offer little long-term satisfaction.
Ethical Brands Boycotting Black Friday
Some companies are choosing to prioritize environmental consciousness over participating in massive sales campaigns. Here are a few examples:
Patagonia: For years, Patagonia has opted out of Black Friday sales. Instead, it provides tips on clothing care and offers repair services. Through its WORN Wear program, it encourages the purchase of second-hand Patagonia items.
Finisterre: Last year, the company replaced Black Friday with Blue Friday, donating £2 to Level Water, a charity providing swimming lessons for children with disabilities, for every order placed.
Lush: This brand offers only one sale a year, after Christmas, emphasizing the importance of using fresh products.
Teemill: Instead of Black Friday, Teemill runs Take Back Friday. Customers can return products at the end of their lifecycle for a £5 credit toward their next purchase.
Me and Em: This clothing retailer abstains from Black Friday, citing its commitment to slow fashion and discouraging rushed buying decisions.
Raeburn: Through its Buy Nothing New campaign, the brand closes its online stores on Black Friday, selling pre-loved items in physical locations. It also hosts repair workshops for all clothing brands.
Not on the Highstreet: This small business marketplace advocates for buying nothing—unless it’s from a small business, of course.
