Here is a simple guide on how to decide whether it is greener to drive to the store or to shop online. A basic rule to follow: how will this lower my carbon footprint compared to the other?

Shop in the store when…

1. you can walk or ride your bike to the store. Check the walking distance and time at Google  Maps.
2. you can take public transportation to the store. Check out PublicTransportation.org for public transportation in your area.
3. you can buy locally made products. Support your local economy and shop at the local “Mom and Dad’s” store. Search for locally made clothing, and learn which materials are native to your area.

Shop online when…

1. you have to drive more than 5 to 10 miles to the store. Use MapQuest or Google Maps to find out the distance to your destination.
2. you can choose to ship Ground instead of Overnight. Although your products are shipped using fossil fuels, each product is shipped with many other products at once. Also, Ground uses much less energy than Overnight transportation.
3. you will recycle all of the packaging your products come in. Products shipped to your door will require much more packaging, but as long as they are recycled, this should not create more waste! Check out earth911.org to learn how to recycle different materials in your community.

To go to the mall, or to shop online: that is the question.

Tags: recycle, shopping