THE GREEN GUIDE TO BLACK FRIDAY

It is the time of year when our inboxes fill up with ‘unmissable’ offers, our social feeds flash with 50% off deals, and suddenly we are wondering if we really do need that air fryer after all. Black Friday has become almost impossible to ignore, but it is one of the most wasteful times of the year, leading to huge overconsumption, with many of the ‘irresistible deals’ destined for landfill.

This year, why not step back from the frenzy and take a calmer, greener approach? Here’s how to resist the ‘bargain’, save some money and be more sustainable along the way.

Unsubscribe and unfollow

The best way to avoid temptation this sale season is not to see it! Brands are experts at creating a sense of urgency, so unsubscribe from marketing emails and mute brand on socials for a week or two. You’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to resist when the offers stop landing in your inbox.

Write a list

If there are things you genuinely need (a winter coat, a blender that actually blends), then write them down before you start looking. That way, if you do find something in the sale, you’ll know whether it is a good purchase or just clever advertising.

Check what you already own

Before buying anything new, have a proper rummage through your wardrobe or kitchen drawers. Forgotten items are often hidden at the back of the cupboard, and repairing, reusing or repurposing something you already have is the most sustainable shopping there is.

Sleep on it

Impulse buying is what fuels Black Friday. So when you spot something tempting, step away for 24 hours before making a decision. Often, that initial rush fades, and chances are you’ll feel relieved you didn’t click buy now. If you still want it tomorrow, and it is on your list, then go for it.

Borrow, rent or buy second-hand

If you do decide you need something, there might be a greener way to do it. Check apps like Vinted or Facebook Marketplace, where you’ll often find things in near-perfect condition. Or rent that power tool if you only need it for a day. It’s cheaper, more sustainable, and you’ll avoid that ‘how much did I spend?!’ guilt later on.

Black Friday thrives on FOMO. Remember, it’s not a saving if you didn’t need it. A £60 jumper reduced from £120 isn’t a bargain if you didn’t need a new jumper in the first place. Before you buy, pause and ask yourself, ‘Would I want this if it weren’t on sale?’ If the answer’s no, you’ve just saved yourself £60.

It isn’t about saying no to everything this Black Friday; it’s about buying less and making more conscious choices to be kinder to the planet and our credit cards this November.