French Environment Minister's Anti-Shopping Campaign Sparks Intense Black Friday Debate

The French environment ministry's anti-shopping campaign, aimed at promoting sustainable consumption and transforming Black Friday into a Green Friday, has sparked controversy within President Emmanuel Macron's administration. While the campaign seeks to combat unsustainable over-consumption, it has faced criticism from cabinet members, including the economy minister, who is concerned about rising unemployment and reducing living costs. The campaign, initiated by the French Government's Agency for Ecological Transition, uses humorous TV ads to encourage individuals to question their buying decisions and promote a circular economy. However, the Confederation of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses has condemned the campaign, citing concerns over inflation and a slowdown in economic activity in the retail sector.