Some individuals regard shopping as a hobby today. However, long ago it was a routine domestic chore. Although shopping has changed in recent years, it has some positive and negative aspects. In my opinion, it lean more towards the negative aspect, because this habit could become addictive.
When shopping becomes a hobby people will buy products they do not need, which can lead to environmental harm and financial problems. While overconsumption becomes an everyday activity, people forgot about the environment by not thinking about how, where and at what cost these products were made. Tons of waste are thrown away in oceans killing animals and fish. For example, vast amounts of plastic waste, including single-use plastics, end up in the ocean, forming massive garbage patches like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
On the other hand, shopping hobby can contribute as relaxation, also it provides new work places. Lots of people find it as a type of therapy when some individuals walk through malls or browse online stores. According to Statista, global retail sales were estimated at over $30 trillion USD in 2023, and the industry employs over 300 million people worldwide, showing the major role shopping plays in modern economies.
In conclusion, although shopping can have some benefits as stress relief, I believe overconsumption leads to harmful effects and kills millions of lives. It is important not to make it a hobby and find balance to save our planet.