You may have considered shopping in-store vs. online before! Typically, the choice is based on convenience or a social outing with friends or family! A question we ask ourselves is, which one is better for the planet? You may think of how long you will drive to the mall or the multiple spots to find your item. By making those extra stops, you are participating in trip chaining, which lowers emissions per trip as you allocate your transportation to various errands. In short, this does generate emissions from your car or the bus you are taking. However, it is far less than that when it comes to online shopping! 

In fact, from a packaging standpoint alone, online orders generate five times more emissions from online packaging than in-store shopping bags you will get from your trip to the mall. Mall or in-person shopping generates 60% less GHG emissions than online shopping. Also, shopping online yields more bulk orders. Similar or the same items purchased in multiple sizes or colours only for most items to be returned! It has been found that online orders have a return rate of 40%. Unfortunately, many of those returned items do not return to the retailer’s shelves. Much of this is distributed to liquidation companies instead. 

With all this to say, in-store shopping may be challenging or available to all! It is essential to remember that when choosing which option is better. The truth is it is highly individual. Many do not live within a short distance of shopping centres, and online shopping may be more convenient, easy and accessible. Here are a few suggestions for making in-store or online shopping easier on our planet. 

How to shop in-store more sustainably: 

• Wait to go to the mall until you know you have a few stores to hit!
• Carpool with friends, walk or take public transit. 
• Bring a bag; there is no need for that extra packaging! You can also opt for the bigger back at the first store and use that for your other stores!
• Try things on! Find your actual size and see if you like the fit or feel of the product.

How to shop online more sustainably: 

• Wait to order more items from one store.
• Select ship together or slow delivery where possible (let them fill the entire container or van up before shipment).
• Select less packaging where possible.
• Use that measuring tape stored away somewhere in your home to determine your measurements and more accurately order your size online.
• Reuse or recycle the packaging that it comes in.

Have you tried any of these tips already? We would love to know! Please share with us on our socials @housethirty.