Shopping on Amazon can be incredibly convenient, but it comes with a hidden environmental cost —excess packaging, carbon emissions from multiple shipments, and overconsumption. If Amazon is part of your online shopping routine, there are still ways to make your purchases more sustainable! Here are some practical tips to minimize your environmental impact when shopping on Amazon.
1. Be intentional with what you purchase on Amazon
Firstly, the most sustainable shopping habit is mindful consumption. Having literally anything you could ever want at your finger tips can cause you to buy things you don’t actually need. Before clicking the “Buy Now” button it can be helpful to ask yourself these questions:
- Do I really need this item?
- Can I borrow, thrift, or buy it locally instead?
- Is there a more durable, sustainable alternative?
If you answer “no” to the first question or “yes” to the other two, then there’s really no need to buy it off Amazon.
2. Combine orders to reduce packaging
Every separate Amazon shipment comes with its own box, plastic or paper packaging, and transportation footprint. If you don’t need something urgently (which you normally don’t!), wait until you have multiple items and place a single order. Such a small change that will cut down on packaging waste and the number of delivery trips to your home. In addition, if you have Amazon Prime, you can use the Amazon Day option at checkout to have your items shipped together on a specific day of the week.
3. Request plastic free packaging
Amazon doesn’t always make plastic-free packaging the default, but you can request it by reaching out to customer support. Follow this helpful guide to get your Amazon orders shipped plastic free! While this method is not always guaranteed, the more customers request it the more likely Amazon will expand into eco-friendly packaging options.
4. Buy used when you can
One of the best ways to reduce your shopping footprint is to buy secondhand whenever possible! There is typically always an option to buy used books and other media but Amazon offers other preloved items as well. Check out Amazon Warehouse for gently used/open-box items (that are sold at a discount!) or look for “Renewed” products (especially electronics) which are repackaged for resale. Buying used is always the better option, as it keeps products in circulation and out of landfills.
5. Buy more sustainable choices
Amazon is obviously not the most eco-friendly place to shop… But, they do have a Climate Pledge Friendly badge that highlights products that meet certain sustainability certifications, such as reduced carbon footprints or recyclable packaging. Take this badge with a grain of salt though, and always opt for brands you know are truly sustainable and not greenwashing. While not perfect, it’s a good place to start when trying to be more sustainable on Amazon!
6. Choose slower shipping
Instead of expecting next day delivery, you can opt for no rush shipping (or selecting a later delivery date) at checkout. This helps Amazon consolidate shipments, which reduces the number of delivery trucks on the road. Fewer trucks = fewer emissions = more sustainable online shopping.
Amazon shopping doesn’t have to be at odds with your sustainability goals. By combining shipments, requesting plastic-free packaging, choosing used items, and being intentional with what you buy, you can make eco-friendlier choices while still enjoying the convenience of online shopping. Do you avoid Amazon completely or do you use these tips to make your shopping more eco-friendly?? Comment below your thoughts!
Love,
Jenna ♥
I love that you share practical tips that can be applied, wherever someone happens to be on their eco journey! Every little bit helps.