In September, the trend of unpackaged, or bulk, sales is on the rise, with more consumers choosing to buy products without their original packaging. This shift has sparked a debate about its environmental impact. Are these sales truly eco-friendly, or do they come with hidden problems? This question was at the center of a discussion held on Sunday, September 6, in Nantes, a city in the Loire-Atlantique region of France. The event brought together experts, environmentalists, and local business owners to explore the benefits and challenges of reducing packaging waste. Proponents argue that unpackaged goods significantly cut down on plastic and cardboard use, reducing landfill waste and the carbon footprint associated with producing and transporting packaging materials. Additionally, buying in bulk can encourage more sustainable consumption habits, as consumers are more likely to purchase only what they need. However, critics raised concerns about the practicality and accessibility of unpackaged options. Not all products can be sold without packaging, and some items require protection to maintain freshness or prevent contamination. There is also the issue of consumer behavior—while the intention may be to reduce waste, some shoppers might end up buying more than they need, leading to food waste. Furthermore, the infrastructure needed to support unpackaged sales, such as reusable containers and proper storage, can be costly for small businesses. The discussion in Nantes highlighted the complexity of evaluating the environmental impact of unpackaged sales. While the initiative shows promise in reducing waste, the conversation underscored the need for a balanced approach that considers both environmental benefits and practical challenges. As the trend continues to grow, finding sustainable solutions that work for both consumers and businesses will be key to making unpackaged sales a truly green alternative.