AliExpress

AliExpress has taken steps to enhance product safety and compliance, such as signing the EU's Product Safety Pledge+ in 2023. However, the platform faces challenges in ensuring full transparency and traceability, as evidenced by the European Commission's formal proceedings under the Digital Services Act in 2024, which highlighted concerns about the traceability of traders and transparency of recommender systems.

AliExpress lacks platform-wide sustainability certifications or standards. While some individual sellers may adhere to certain standards, there is no overarching framework ensuring compliance across the platform.

AliExpress has made some efforts towards sustainable packaging, with certain sellers using eco-friendly materials. However, these practices are not standardized across the platform, and many products are still packaged using non-recyclable materials.

AliExpress lacks transparency regarding labor practices and fair wages within its supply chain. The platform's focus on low prices raises concerns about potential labor exploitation, but specific information is scarce.

The majority of products on AliExpress are made from virgin, petroleum-based synthetic fibers, with sustainable materials like organic cotton or recycled fibers being extremely rare. The platform does not promote or enforce the use of sustainable materials among its sellers.

AliExpress does not have specific initiatives addressing water conservation or pollution control. The manufacturing processes of many products sold on the platform may contribute to water pollution, but the platform lacks measures to mitigate these impacts.

There is no evidence that AliExpress implements energy efficiency measures or promotes the use of renewable energy in its operations or among its sellers. The platform's business model, which involves shipping millions of individual packages globally, contributes to a significant carbon footprint.

AliExpress's global shipping model, often involving air freight, results in a substantial carbon footprint. The platform has not implemented measures to offset these emissions or reduce its overall environmental impact.

The platform operates on a linear 'take-make-waste' model, with no initiatives promoting product longevity, repair, or recycling. Products are often designed to be disposable, leading to increased waste.

There is no evidence that AliExpress enforces animal welfare standards or promotes cruelty-free products. The platform does not provide information on this aspect, making it difficult to assess its performance.