Our slogan here at the Bluedot Living Marketplace is “Buy Less, Buy Better.” We don’t recommend purchasing items you don’t need. We also understand that a major discount on, say, an electric lawn mower or a quality vacuum is a big deal. Prime Day can also be a good time to replenish the items you’re certain you’ll use, like our favorite laundry detergent or refill cartons of Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap.

While Amazon is reducing the use of some plastic, it still uses many plastic envelopes. Despite having the “chasing arrows” recycling symbol stamped on them, these envelopes are effectively trash. You can let the company know that you want the option to opt out of plastic packaging for all orders it fulfills. A year ago, Amazon honored this request, but a recent test performed by four Bluedotters revealed mixed results. Even so, it’s never a waste of time to tell companies what you want from them. Tell Amazon that you want to see less plastic. It will take about five minutes. Here’s how:

1. Click this link to go to Amazon’s Customer Service Page. Sign into your account if you aren’t already logged in.

2. Click on the text that indicates you need help with “Something else.” 

3. Click on the circle with the three white dots inside of it and the text “Something else.” 

4. Click on “I need more help.” 

5. A chat window will open that connects you to customer service. Follow any necessary prompts, and click that you’d like to connect with a customer service associate.

6. Copy this into the window: “I’d like to request that my future orders ship in minimal, plastic-free packaging. The elimination of plastic envelopes would be a great step for Amazon to take moving forward.”  
   

7. Request a real person again if prompted. You should get an actual human being within about 60 seconds.

Once you place an order, opt to have your items delivered in as few shipments as possible, which will reduce excess packaging and freight. When you receive everything, be sure to properly recycle your boxes, paper envelopes, and other paper packages. You’re not alone if you’re wondering, “Must I remove packing tape and labels before recycling Amazon boxes?” One reader asked our advice columnist this very question. The short answer: it helps to remove the labels and tape, but your boxes can still be recycled even if you don’t. (For details, click here.)

Happy shopping. And remember, just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean you need it!  

– Elizabeth Weinstein, Marketplace Editor.