The Environmental Cost of Online Returns: Why Sending It Back is Hurting the Planet

As online shopping becomes increasingly popular, the convenience of returning items has led to a significant environmental issue. Many consumers are unaware of the environmental damage caused by returning goods, especially in the fast fashion industry.

Every returned item contributes to additional carbon emissions, with the return journey often adding up to 30% more emissions than the original delivery​ (Inside Ecology)​ (Warehouse News). The transportation involved in processing returns can significantly increase a product's carbon footprint, particularly when items are shipped back to warehouses or even internationally.

Moreover, a staggering 9.5 billion pounds of returned items were sent to landfills in 2022, contributing to pollution and the release of toxic chemicals and gases as these products decompose​ (CleanHub's Blog | For Clean Oceans )​ (ReturnLogic). Clothing, in particular, is a major culprit, with an average return rate of 32% in the fashion industry. Items made from synthetic materials, like polyester, can take centuries to decompose, releasing harmful plastic particles into the environment​ (CleanHub's Blog | For Clean Oceans ).

The issue is compounded by the excessive packaging used in the return process. Online returns often require additional packaging materials, much of which ends up as waste. This is particularly concerning given that online shopping already generates significantly more packaging waste than traditional retail​ (ReturnLogic).

For Gen Z and Millennials, who are increasingly concerned about sustainability, understanding the environmental impact of returns is crucial. Making more informed shopping decisions—such as carefully considering purchases to reduce the likelihood of returns—can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Resources

Inside Ecology: Provides an in-depth look at the environmental impact of online returns, focusing on emissions and waste.

CleanHub: Details the environmental consequences of returned goods, including their contribution to landfill waste.

ReturnLogic: Explores the broader environmental impacts of e-commerce returns, including the waste generated from discarded products and packaging.

Warehouse & Logistics News: Discusses the environmental costs of returns, particularly in terms of carbon emissions and waste.

National Retail Federation: Offers insights into the growing trend of online returns and their impact on both businesses and the environment.

Optoro: Provides data on the environmental impact of returns, including the carbon footprint and landfill contributions.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Discusses the broader environmental impacts of waste, including contributions from the retail sector.