Why Green Friday is the New Black
Have you heard of Green Friday?
Green Friday is a retail event in Australia that focuses on sustainability and ethical shopping. This 4-day event encourages consumers to buy from purpose-driven brands and to make purchases that are more mindful to the planet.
The Green Friday trend is becoming more prominent in the minds of Australian consumers, who are growing more conscious of the environmental consequences of their consumption choices.
The event presents enticing discounts and special promotions on eco-friendly products, providing consumers with a chance to make mindful purchases and back businesses that place sustainability at the forefront of their operations.
Black Friday Vs Green Friday
Black Friday is a popular tradition that stemmed from America. It’s now a global phenomenon that has evolved from a one day shopping event into a weekend of discounts extending that extend from Friday to Cyber Monday.
As consumerism battles against the planet’s resources, a new movement taking on Black Friday is Green Friday!
The Green Friday movement has become a popular event in Australia, providing an environmentally effective alternative to compulsive consumption. The now-famous World Day was originally conceived by NGOs, environmental groups, small businesses, purpose-driven and sustainable brands.
The goal of Green Friday is to raise awareness of ethical consumption and teach consumers that it’s entirely possible to consume in a way that respects our planet AND meets our needs.
Participating in Green Friday is a way for businesses to not only provide quality products but also make a positive impact on the planet. Shoppers looking to support environmentally-conscious companies can explore exclusive deals curated for this event.
While many brands such as Make My Shave continue to operate sustainable practices all year round; Green Friday has become an important counter-proposal to Black Friday.
Should you care about Green Friday?
The facts speak volumes! As per The Latch, a staggering "90% of Australian households harbour unwanted or unused items, 80% of household plastics and textiles end up in landfill and $80 billion in fashion purchases end up in landfill each year. And, probably the most startling stat of all, in a climate change performance review of 64 countries, Australia ranked last.”
Yikes!
As a sustainable lifestyle movement, Green Friday is a way of connecting with conscious shopping who are attracted to sustainability-focused brands.
It provides an opportunity to discover new eco-friendly products and Australian brands that focus on making a positive impact on the planet.
3 Tips for Shopping Green Friday in Australia
If you like the prospect of more mindful shopping, here are three tips to guide you on your sustainability journey:
#1 Ask yourself, do I need it?
First and foremost, before getting swooped up in the latest sale, ask yourself, ‘do I really it?’
In the excitement of Green Friday and the allure of incredible deals, it's easy to get carried away and fill your cart with items you may not actually need. Before clicking "checkout," take a step back and ask yourself, "Do I need it?"
Consider the purpose and utility of the product in your life. Will it genuinely improve your daily routine, enhance your well-being, or contribute to your long-term goals? By taking a moment to evaluate your needs, you not only practice mindful consumption but also save money in the process.
Mindful shopping isn't just about finding the best deals; it's about aligning your purchases with your values. This simple practice not only reduces wasteful spending but also curtails the environmental impact of unnecessary production and transportation.
Plus, it keeps your living space clutter-free, allowing you to focus on items that truly bring you joy and utility.
So, next time you're about to snag a bargain, remember to ask yourself this crucial question, and you'll be making a positive impact, both for yourself and the planet.
#2 Is it a sustainable switch?
During the Green Friday frenzy, it's tempting to replace your current items with newer, shinier versions. However, before you hit that "add to cart" button, pause and ask yourself, "Is it a sustainable switch?"
Consider whether the new product is genuinely more eco-friendly, durable, or energy-efficient than what you already have.
Sustainable choices often involve investing in products that have a longer lifespan, reduced energy consumption, or are made from environmentally friendly materials.
To make a sustainable switch, research the product's specifications and reviews to ensure it aligns with your eco-conscious goals. For example, opting for energy-efficient appliances, eco-certified clothing, or reusable alternatives to disposable items can significantly reduce your ecological footprint.
By making mindful choices, you not only reduce waste but also encourage businesses to produce more sustainable options.
TIP: Replace disposable razors with a reusable Make My Shave razor:
The future of our planet depends on our actions and this is a good time to seek out sustainable product alternatives. Because if not now, then when?
#3 Give greener gifts
If you’re a progressive shopper who's super organised, Green Friday, Australia could be the optimum time for your Christmas Gift shopping.
Sustainable giving flips the narrative of the traditional Christmas shopping experience. It’s also a prime time to save money AND do more good for the world.
If you’re wondering where to start, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
We’ve curated a list of 17 sustainable gifts - Our handpicked guide includes Australian-owned, locally-made products and gifts that arrive in eco-friendly packaging. You can also check out a full list of Green Friday goodies by the Aussie site, Green Friday.
If you're interested in how we're closing the loop on plastic and making sustainable shaving the norm, check out our bundle box. The box not only includes Make My Shave's vegan certified razor, but also a pre-shave exfoliation set and hydrating shave bar that's plastic-free and with soaps handmade in Australia.
What else can you do to support Green Friday, Australia and led a more sustainable lifestyle?
While no one expects you to wake up tomorrow, give up eating red meat and go 100% zero waste — there are small steps you can take every day to reduce your environmental footprint.
Here are 17 things you can do to help the planet TODAY:
- Donate old clothes to give them a second life before they end up as waste
- Avoid fast fashion
- Switch off (literally!) if you’re not using it, turn it off!
- Car share, ride your bike, walk, run, take public transport or fewer journeys
- Wash your clothes using cold water
- Sun dry your laundry instead of using a dryer
- Recycle used items at home - jars, containers
- Stop buying plastic bottles
- Eat locally-produced and organic food
- Reduce your intake of red meat
- Use less water
- Only purchase items that come in easily-recyclable packaging
- Share your ‘green’ ideas with others
- Become as close to carbon neutral as possible by purchasing carbon offsets
- Choose ethical banking
- Shop local, ethical and sustainable where possible
- Switch daily household and personal care items for those with less plastic
Because protecting our earth has never been more important, it's time to join the Green Friday movement!
Click here to out why Make My Shave makes shaving more sustainable.
