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Black Friday: Polish ecologists warn of consumerism’s environmental toll

28.11.2025 11:20
As shoppers in Poland scour for Black Friday deals, environmentalists are warning about the growing ecological cost of rampant consumerism.
Ecologists warn that Black Fridays surge in consumption exacerbates environmental harm and unsustainable waste.
Ecologists warn that Black Friday's surge in consumption exacerbates environmental harm and unsustainable waste.Photo: Ashkan Forouzani/Unsplash.com/CC0

In a country where shopping events increasingly mirror global trends, activists say the surge in purchases has tangible consequences for the planet.

Joanna Sawicka of the non-governmental organisation Kupuj Odpowiedzialnie (Buy Responsibly) highlighted the specific impact on the textile sector.

"Campaigns designed to push consumers to buy even more have very real consequences for the planet," she said.

Research published in the Material Market Report shows that carbon dioxide emissions have risen by 20 percent over the past five years," Sawicka added, citing 2024 data on emissions linked to clothing production.

Environmental groups warn that Black Friday’s rush drives fast-fashion waste and high emissions, while initiatives such as Buy Responsibly encourage consumers to prioritise quality over quantity to reduce Poland’s environmental footprint, according to Sawicka.

Black Friday overconsumption

What began as a day of bargains increasingly symbolises overconsumption, putting pressure on the planet, wallets and even mental well-being, experts warn.

Kupuj Odpowiedzialnie, speaking through its social media channels, warns that marketing tactics - limited-time discounts, stock alerts and countdowns - push shoppers to buy impulsively, often leading to waste and higher carbon emissions.

Black Friday miał być dniem okazji, dziś coraz częściej staje się symbolem nadkonsumpcji, która obciąża planetę,...

Opublikowany przez Kupuj odpowiedzialnie Piątek, 28 listopada 2025

The NGO urges consumers to focus on what they truly need and make conscious choices, cautioning that every purchase has a real impact on the environment.

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Source: IAR/Facebook.com/kupujodpowiedzialnie