Black Friday is an occasion most of us know well—images of crowds, endless queues, and shoppers grabbing deals in a frenzy come to mind. It’s a global phenomenon that often leaves a trail of overconsumption, waste, and a sense of regret for buying things we didn’t really need. At iTokri, we believe in celebrating the joy of conscious choices, not chaotic spending. This is why we’re embracing Green Friday, a movement that aligns beautifully with what we’ve stood for all along—mindful living, sustainability, and celebrating the stories behind what we bring into our lives.
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What is Green Friday?
Green Friday is a powerful alternative to the consumerist fervor of Black Friday. The movement emerged in 2015, but its seeds were planted as early as 1992 in Canada with “Buy Nothing Day.” Back then, the idea was simple: take a step back, reflect on what you truly need, and resist the urge to shop impulsively.
Green Friday encourages us to make thoughtful, ethical choices. It’s about asking ourselves where our products come from, who made them, and what impact our buying habits have on the planet. Supported by global organizations like WWF and ECODES, this day invites us to choose sustainability, support small and local businesses, and embrace the joy of living lightly.
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Why Green Friday Matters
For decades, Black Friday has symbolized excess. In the U.S., this shopping tradition marked the beginning of Christmas shopping, but it quickly expanded globally, spilling into the “Cyber Weekend” and beyond. The result? Overconsumption, environmental degradation, and a growing sense of emptiness tied to the things we own.
• Carbon Emissions: In 2021, Black Friday shopping alone contributed over 380,000 tons of carbon emissions.
• E-Waste and Landfills: More than 80% of items bought during Black Friday end up discarded within a year, choking landfills and adding to the growing crisis of e-waste.
• Stress and Chaos: Long queues, stampedes, and frenzied fights for discounts have led to injuries, and in some cases, even fatalities.
Green Friday flips this narrative. It offers an opportunity to pause and make choices that align with our values—choices that honor the planet, its people, and the lives we lead.
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At iTokri, we’ve always believed in the power of thoughtful consumption. For us, every product tells a story—of artisans, heritage, and traditions passed down through generations. Green Friday feels like a natural extension of who we are and what we strive to represent.
1. Celebrating Heritage, Not Hurry
In a world that often prioritizes speed and convenience, we take pride in slowing down. Each item at iTokri is the result of careful craftsmanship, a reflection of traditions that take time to nurture. Green Friday reminds us to cherish the things we bring into our lives, not for their quantity but for their meaning.
2. Nurturing Artisanship
Behind every handcrafted textile, jewelry piece, or home décor item lies the story of an artisan. By choosing to support small-scale producers and fair trade practices, Green Friday creates space for artisans to thrive. It allows us to continue our mission of connecting these creators with a global audience that values authenticity and skill.
3. Embracing Sustainability
Sustainability is woven into the fabric of iTokri, quite literally. From eco-friendly packaging to sourcing methods that respect the environment, every decision we make is with a view to creating a greener future. Green Friday is a reminder to continue walking this path with even greater intention.
4. Inspiring Change
We see Green Friday as a chance to spark conversations about what truly matters. It’s not just about buying less; it’s about buying better. It’s about understanding the impact of our choices and using our collective power as consumers to demand a better, more equitable world.
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How Green Friday Reflects a Changing World
The rise of Green Friday is part of a larger shift in how we think about shopping and consumption. Millennials and Gen Z consumers, in particular, are driving this change. Studies show that they’re willing to spend more on sustainable products, and they actively seek brands that align with their values.
At iTokri, we feel incredibly grateful to have built a community of like-minded individuals—people who care about where their products come from and who cherish the art of handmade. Green Friday is our way of saying thank you for believing in this shared vision. Together, we’re creating a movement that’s about more than transactions; it’s about transformation.
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An Invitation to Reflect
This Green Friday, we’re not asking you to shop—we’re asking you to pause. Take a moment to reflect on the impact of your choices. Look around your home and find joy in the things you already have. Consider how your purchases—whether today, tomorrow, or a year from now—can support a kinder, more sustainable world.
At iTokri, we’re here to continue telling the stories of the artisans and traditions we hold dear. We’re here to remind you that every choice, no matter how small, has the power to create change.
So, what does Green Friday mean to you? For us, it’s a celebration of mindful living, a tribute to the earth, and a promise to keep crafting a better future—together.
Thank you for being part of this journey. 🌿
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