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Should You Shop Online?

Americans spend a lot of money online. Experts say that online shoppers spend about $96 billion each month.

Many people like the ease of online shopping. It takes just a few clicks on a smartphone. Items from sites like Amazon can arrive within a day. And you don’t have to worry about stores being closed when you want to shop.

But others say online shopping can be bad for the environment. The shipment of orders requires boxes and other packaging. That adds to waste. Also, the growth of online shopping is a big reason many stores have shut down. From 2020 to 2023, more than 24,000 stores closed in the U.S. 

Here’s what two of our readers say.

Online shopping is convenient. You can do it in a few minutes, without having to leave your home. It also makes shopping easier for people who live far from shops. Plus, it saves time for busy parents.

You have more choices online than in a store. You often get better deals online too. If you shop online, you avoid driving to a store. That’s better for the environment.

You don’t know the quality of items you buy online. So you may be disappointed when they arrive. Ordering online often requires a credit card. Someone could hack the site and steal your information.

Deliveries of online orders can also get lost or delayed. One time, my mom ordered holiday cards online. They didn’t arrive until January!  

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