Refurbs are calling on everyone to consider ditching Black Friday this year and instead join us in making Christmas more sustainable and affordable on Buy Nothing New Day.
The UK retail industry has adopted the American tradition of holding ‘Black Friday’ on the last Friday in November. Black Friday boasts discounts and bargains in the lead up to Christmas, sending shoppers into a frenzy.
As we have done every year, we’re encouraging shoppers to ditch the impulsive purchases and instead take part in Buy Nothing New Day. Unlike Black Friday, this aims to raise awareness of consumerism and encourage customers to shop more ethically, using their spending power to have a positive impact.
Refurbs is the ideal retailer to turn to, supporting Buy Nothing New Day by instead opting for second hand items and helping divert waste from landfill.
Refurbs Flint also offer a wide range of high-quality household furniture and appliances. Why not think about ‘upcycling’ a piece of furniture as a gift? Repainting a furniture find, updating hardware and adding that personal touch which is always appreciated by friends, family, and the planet!
According to the GWP group, approximately £42 million of unwanted Christmas presents are thrown out and go to landfill each year and an extra 30% of rubbish is produced and discarded throughout the festive period when compared with the rest of the year!
Here are some of our top tips on making your Christmas more sustainable:
- Quality over quantity. Don’t buy items that will just go to waste
- Gift an experience. Reduce demand for physical resources
- Think about materials. Is your wrapping paper recycled?
- Cut your food waste. Buy only what you need and be sure to save your leftovers
- Christmas party outfits. The most sustainable option is to wear the clothes you already own
- Get crafty. Why not make your Christmas decorations and save some money?
So, this Friday let’s think twice about buying impulse gifts and items and show support for a more sustainable and affordable Christmas. Let’s make people aware of the benefits of buying pre-loved items and of reusing and recycling to help reduce pollution and protect the environment.