We’ve all been there. Running low on batteries, diapers, socks ― whatever ― go online, order and click the free two-day delivery option. Because, why not? It’s free and it’s fast.
What people may not realize is that the speedy delivery comes at an environmental cost.
A new video released by the University of California and Vox as part of their Climate Lab series aims to draw attention to the unintended impacts of our need for instant gratification by highlighting the staggering scale of the digital shopping revolution.
Since 2009, U.S. Postal Service deliveries have increased by 65 percent, according to UC Davis.As the holiday shopping season approaches, it’s estimated that online sales for November and December alone will hit $107.4 billion.
E-commerce has made people’s lives easier. Nearly 80 percent of Americans shop online, and they can do so any time, anywhere. One in five people even do it while using the bathroom.
It can also be greener than going to physical