Environmental Impacts of Online Shopping
Author: Nadia S.
Level: 5
Instructor: Sarah H.
Photo Credit: amisb / 123rf Stock Photos
Article ID: 2874 [Environmentalism- Fall 2023]
The environmental impacts of online shopping can cause climate change, because transportation of items from warehouses adds carbon dioxide to the air. Also, packaging materials used in online shopping can generate excessive waste. Plastic packaging, in particular, can take a long time to decompose. The power supply used in operating online platforms and warehouses also has a negative environmental impact.
There are ways to make the impacts of online shopping more acceptable. We should minimize online orders to reduce the number of deliveries and carbon emissions. Choosing to buy from local or regional sellers can reduce the distance items travel. Another good option for saving the environment is to use second-hand things. Sharing items with friends and family can reduce environmental impacts.
I think some small changes in our online purchasing habits can make a positive impact on the environment. It is important that everyone does their part to protect the planet for the future.