Black Friday, a global shopping day, has gained significant popularity in Switzerland in recent years. However, behind the apparent bargains and discounts lies a dark side that has increasingly come to the forefront in Switzerland. In this article, we will take a closer look at why Black Friday is problematic in Switzerland from an ecological and social perspective, specifically addressing the situation in Switzerland.
1. Mass consumption and resource waste in Switzerland:
- In 2021, around 1.8 million packages were shipped in Switzerland on Black Friday, an increase of 35% compared to the previous year.
- On average, Swiss people spent about 245 CHF on this day, with many of these purchases based on impulse buying rather than on products they actually needed.
2. Disposable mentality and electronic waste in Switzerland:
- Every year, about 70,000 tons of electronic waste are generated in Switzerland, with Black Friday contributing to an increase in electronic consumption and thus also electronic waste.
- A survey found that 30% of Swiss buyers purchase electronic products during Black Friday, later realizing that they do not really need them.
3. Working conditions in global production:
- Many of the products sold on Black Friday in Switzerland are manufactured in countries with lower labor standards. This raises concerns about working conditions and fairness in the supply chain.
4. Reinforcement of social inequality in Switzerland:
- Black Friday can deepen the social divide in Switzerland, as lower-income individuals are often excluded from the advertised discounts.
- In Switzerland, the average gross income is about 68,000 CHF per year, while many offers and discounts on Black Friday are aimed at higher-income individuals.
5. Environmental impact of traffic in Switzerland:
- Black Friday leads to an increase in traffic in Swiss cities, which not only causes congestion and air pollution but also increases CO2 emissions.
It is important to emphasize that Black Friday in Switzerland does not necessarily have to be meaningless. More conscious consumption and support for sustainable offers can help minimize the negative impacts. Companies can also take responsibility by adopting more sustainable practices and being transparent about their supply chains.
Ultimately, it is up to Swiss consumers to make a conscious choice and use Black Friday as an opportunity to make more sustainable decisions. By becoming aware of how our purchasing decisions affect the environment and society in the long term, we can contribute to a more sustainable future in Switzerland.
