Get Rid of Mounting Waste with a Little Change this Christmas
Once again, December rolls around, and our homes are swamped with endless piles of shipping boxes from our online Christmas shopping sprees. Sure, it may be convenient to shop online, but the environmental toll is undeniable. According to the Federal Environmental Agency (UBA), Germans alone generated 18.8 million tons of packaging waste in 2020, with a whopping 20-30% surge around the holidays.
Fear not, eco-conscious shoppers! Retail giants are jumping on the sustainability bandwagon, testing alternative solutions to reduce packaging waste. One of these solutions is the reusable shipping bag, currently being piloted by retail giants like Tchibo.
By ordering online gifts in these reusable bags made from 70% recycled plastic, returning the bags is a breeze - drop them in your mailbox or hand them in at a nearby store, with no additional costs for the consumer. Surprisingly, these pilot projects have seen staggering return rates of 81% and 75%, according to Tchibo reps.
Another contender in the battle against packaging waste is mail-order company Otto, which has already tested reusable shipping bags with considerable success. Customer feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with a high willingness to return the packaging and pay a deposit for its return.
However, there are still challenges to tackle. Integrating reusable packaging options into the checkout process is not an easy feat for retailers. Additionally, IT hurdles need to be overcome, requiring companies to streamline the process of selecting reusable packaging.
Although the concept of reusable shipping bags is promising, it remains to be seen whether they'll become a mainstream option for e-commerce retailers. The UBA itself advises shoppers to focus on the longevity of their purchases and minimize waste through sustainable packaging rather than just shifting the issue from single-use to reusable plastics.
Embrace a Little Craftiness with Reusable Wrapping
Besides tackling online shopping waste, the UBA also encourages consumers to switch to reusable wrapping paper for their holiday gifts. With most presents heavily encased in disposable wrapping paper, reusable alternatives can make a considerable environmental impact.
By embracing a little craftiness, you can find creative alternatives to traditional disposable wrapping paper, such as upcycling old boxes, cloth, or even wooden scraps. With a little elbow grease, your gifts can shine while reducing waste.
In Conclusion
As we continue to embrace the digital age, it’s crucial to be mindful of the environmental impact of our shopping habits. By implementing small changes like using reusable shipping bags, returning them for reuse, and selecting eco-friendly wrap, we can make a significant contribution to reducing waste this holiday season. Let the festive spirit extend beyond the presents and into the environment!
