Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, local consumers swarm businesses looking for the best deals.

This holiday season, take a step back from the masses and try putting money back in the local economy: Shop local.  Purchasing your seasonal gifts in downtown boutiques and stores keeps money in the economy (Occupy Local??), and reduces the carbon impact of shipping products to your front door. Bring your own bags and reuse wrapping paper to further reduce your carbon footprint.

Sustainable Business Network even has a Buy Local Philly initiative to support local businesses. Plus, Philly stores like the Big Green Earth Store & local boutique Arcadia have tons of eco-friendly gifts for the man, woman or baby in your life.

Posted by Julie 

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher