Skip to main content

Where do your online returns go? - Aparna Mehta

84,411 Views

979 Questions Answered

TED Talk

Let’s Begin…

Do you ever order clothes online in different sizes and colors, just to try them on and then send back what doesn't work? Aparna Mehta used to do this all time, until she one day asked herself: Where do all these returned clothes go? In an eye-opening talk, she reveals the unseen world of "free" online returns and shares a plan to help put an end to this growing environmental catastrophe.

Additional Resources for you to Explore

So what really happens to the plastic bottle and containers that we recycle? Trace the life cycles of three different plastic bottles, and discover the dangers these disposables present to our world.

When you’re shopping, you’re often confronted with a choice: what kind of bag should you use? Plastic, paper, or cloth? Explore the environmental impact of each material. 

You place an order online and are offered many delivery options. Who wouldn't choose the fastest option? After all, you want that product as soon as feasibly possible. But, which delivery choice is best for the environment? Vox takes a closer look. 

Plastic straws are bad, but they’re just a teeny drop in the giant ocean of plastic we’re swimming in. 15 ocean experts share other everyday plastic objects that they would put on the discontinued list.

Next Section »

About TED Talk Lessons

TED Talk Lessons are created by TED-Ed using phenomenal TED Talks. Do you have an idea for a lesson? Create it now using any video from YouTube »

Meet The Creators

  • Speaker Aparna Mehta

More from Troubleshooting the World