Grounded!

When it comes to package shipments consider choosing ground shipping instead of air. Ground shipments burn less fuel which means less impact on Mama Earth. According to an article on Grist.org "aircraft transport boasts greater fuel consumption and greenhouse emissions per ton-mile than any other mode of transport. And their emissions' negative impacts are amplified due to the high altitude where they occur."


If you've gotta send that certain something to NYC by early morning next business day then opt for express air shipment. But if you have a say on how your package gets around then go for ground.

You can also be more conscious of where your items are coming from when doing some online shopping. Sites like Etsy.com have a Shop Local feature where you can purchase items from artisans in your 'hood.

Shopping on eBay? Try to choose sellers who are closer to you rather than farther and that way less pollution is emitted during transit. Or troll the local listings on Craigslist or get free stuff in your area from Freecycle.org

So make an effort to shop local when it comes to clothes and other miscellany items just as you would when shopping locally for food. And if you gotta get it from somewhere far then go with ground!