When shopping for you or a loved one,
don't forget to S.M.I.L.E.! It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of sales during the holidays! But much of what we buy has significant upstream impacts that occur before we buy a product—from resource extraction, production, and transportation—as well as downstream impacts, as many of our purchases eventually end up in the landfill. To help you make your buying decisions wisely this holiday season—and all year long—just remember to S.M.I.L.E.! S: Do you already have something SIMILAR? Take stock of the things you already have. Do you (or the person you're buying a gift for) already own something similar, or have something else that can serve the same function? M: Was it MADE sustainably? Where does the company source their materials? Do they treat their workers well? Do they use minimal packaging that can be recycled or composted? When you prioritize asking these questions, it helps you support companies that are pioneering sustainable production. Check out Environmental Working Group's consumer guides, and eco-friendly gifts from Earth Hero. I: Do you need it IMMEDIATELY? Limited-time sales tend to make us think that RIGHT NOW is the only chance we have to buy an item. Take time to think if you really want or need the item. If you do need the item, is it because the item is broken or showing wear? Can the item be repaired, or replaced secondhand? L: Will you LOVE it for a long time? If you don't LOVE an item, there's a good chance it will be forgotten by next season. If you're buying a gift for someone else, take a moment to ask yourself if they'll use the item happily over a long period of time—and if it was designed to last year after year! E: What happens to it at the END of its lifespan? Before purchasing an item, think about what will happen at the end of its lifespan. Can it be recycled? Can it be repurposed for another use? Is it made to be durable so that it can be fixed and reused if it breaks? With the end of a product's life in mind, you'll help ensure less of what you purchase ends up in a landfill, and that's something to smile about! | 
