Every year, Black Friday triggers a deluge of promotions that encourage quick and bulk purchases. But behind this apparent celebration of "great deals," the environmental impact is enormous. The textile industry alone accounts for approximately 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions (Vert.eco). And during Black Friday, these emissions skyrocket: in 2022, the day of textile sales generated 33,012 tCO₂e , 72% more than a typical day (Greenly.earth).
These massive purchases also produce a gigantic volume of returns, packaging, additional deliveries, all factors which worsen the carbon footprint (France Attac).
Even more worrying: up to 80% of purchases made during Black Friday are reportedly thrown away after very little use, sometimes even after only one use (Population Matters).
A paradox: can Black Friday be made sustainable?
The very concept of Black Friday relies on rock-bottom prices and constant overproduction. Massive discounts devalue the work behind a garment, the materials used, and the craftsmanship involved (ReStory Magazine).
They also encourage impulsive buying: buying because "it's cheap" rather than because we need it. This dynamic fuels a model based on speed, disposability, pollution, exploitation, and the depletion of natural resources (Oxfam France).
Even when responsible brands participate in Black Friday, the impact does not disappear completely: transport, packaging and returns remain a significant source of emissions (Greenly.earth).
Why, despite everything, can this moment have meaning?
However, if we consume thoughtfully, Black Friday can be a positive opportunity.
Discounts can be used to access higher-quality brands—pieces that last, are well-designed, locally made, or produced under good conditions. A "cheap" garment that falls apart after a few washes always ends up costing more: buying a garment that isn't durable means buying it twice .
For brands that produce in Europe or ethically, Black Friday can be a way to make their products more accessible at a specific time of year (Vogue).
The true cost remains invisible
Even with more responsible purchases, it is important to keep in mind that the event itself is based on overconsumption, overproduction and the urgency to buy quickly before “missing the promotion” (France Attac).
The rock-bottom price is never neutral: it has repercussions on materials, on the planet and sometimes on working conditions in the supply chain (ReStory Magazine).
Our position: to consume yes, but consciously.
If we are interested in local, transparent brands, made in Europe or under good conditions, Black Friday can be a time to buy less , but better .
The important thing is to remain demanding: choose pieces that you will wear for a long time, prioritize quality over quantity, avoid impulsive buying and reject the logic of “disposable”.
In summary: yes to a thoughtful Black Friday, no to frenzy.
