Buying things on Amazon is convenient, but it can become addictive. While you can find bargains during Prime Day, it’s best to limit your time on the site to prevent overspending. There are also a variety of reasons not to support Amazon, from its aggressive expansion plans to its growing political power. Consider how you can protect your local economy from Amazon’s rising influence. Keeping the following reasons in mind can help you avoid a disastrous shopping experience.
One of the biggest problems with Amazon is its warehouse conditions. Some warehouses are notorious for poor conditions, and the situation is only getting worse as Jeff Bezos continues to expand his empire. Amazon’s dominance has led to many small businesses struggling. As a result, many consumers are dissatisfied with their shopping experience with the company. While Amazon promises you’ll receive your package in one to seven business days, it can sometimes take weeks to arrive.
Another reason to avoid supporting Amazon is its unethical business practices. The company has come under fire for exploiting its workers. Some fulfillment centers are described as dystopian nightmares, and many employees are unable to pay their rent in some cities. Some employees are even left without any civic benefits. While Amazon relys on the loyalty of customers to keep its operations going, some customers are not comfortable with this. These issues have led many to opt out of Amazon.
The company has a long history of ignoring the issues surrounding global warming and human rights. It’s also accused of aggressively courting the fossil fuel industry. The company has been accused of using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies to enable the extraction of fossil fuels. Furthermore, Amazon has sponsored an event at the Competitive Enterprise Institute 2020, which is known for spreading misinformation about climate change. These are just a few of the many reasons not to support Amazon.
Employees of Amazon complain about fatigue and poor work conditions. They claim that the company does not provide breaks. And the service is so bad that some customers have complained about not being able to reach Amazon representatives. The representatives are rude, insensitive, and do not even respond to messages. If you’re looking for a good job, don’t support Amazon. You will regret it. It will cost you. However, if you choose to work for them, you won’t be alone. The perks that Amazon provides are not enough to justify the conditions.
Some people are concerned about the company’s environmental impact. Amazon drivers emitted over 44 million tons of carbon dioxide in 2018 alone. This is a greater amount than the emissions produced by Switzerland. And while Amazon advertises that it offers great deals, they tend to sell products at prices much higher than the ones advertised. Furthermore, Amazon’s shipping costs and delivery times are also increasing, which worries many consumers. Ultimately, there are many reasons not to support Amazon.
Using the internet to find ethical alternatives to Amazon is also an excellent way to support local businesses. While you can browse through the millions of green products and businesses on Amazon, you’ll also find several local businesses that are owned by people who share your values. A few examples include Reel Paper, an eco-friendly bamboo toilet paper company that donates part of its profits to reducing illness through sanitation with the SOIL organization. Another option is BLK + GRN, an online marketplace for Black-owned natural beauty products.
Another reason not to support Amazon is its continued practice of racial profiling. According to the United Kingdom’s Commission for Competition, Amazon avoided PS52 million in tax last year by using a Luxembourg-based company that registered profits in the UK. They also invested in monopoly firms to reduce taxes. In 2018, Amazon’s key UK business was only required to pay 3% more in tax than in 2017. Furthermore, the company’s “free” services, which include the Prime Music service, are not free of cost.
One of the biggest reasons not to support Amazon is the ethical dilemma it creates. Some of the products it sells are made by people suffering from slavery. Amazon has stopped sourcing from the companies named in the report. These companies pay their workers illegally for overtime, which is against the law. In addition, the companies have been accused of ignoring the conditions of these people. Furthermore, forced labor is illegal in China. Despite these concerns, Amazon is still a major player in the global economy.