I feel like zero waste shops are popping up everywhere these days!
Before I had a shop near me I would go to online sites to find low waste options (packagefree.com and earthhero.com).
It is so nice to be able to walk into a shop to test out products and talk to a real human about how to use them.
Since zero waste shops are becoming more popular I wanted to flesh out some important benefits of shopping at them.
1. Reduce the amount of trash we create
I will start off with the most obvious one.
One of the best benefits to shopping at a zero-waste store is not creating more waste that will end up in the landfill. The EPA calculated that in the U.S. “The total generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) in 2018 was 292.4 million tons.”
Hearing statistics like that can be overwhelming. It can also motivate us to do what we can on a daily basis to decrease the trash we create.
It feels so good to be able to bring my own containers to the zero waste shop and not create more waste.
Small actions can make a HUGE impact if everyone is doing what they can to reduce their waste.
2. Save money
So this one is tricky because not all items at the zero waste store are less expensive than normal stores. Some shops may carry expensive products at their refill station. It really just depends.
But!
One way to save money at these shops is by buying items that can be reused multiple times. The upfront cost can be steep but once you reuse it, it will pay for itself.
Think of items like Swedish dishcloths instead of paper towels. Menstrual cups instead of disposable tampons or pads. And reusable razors instead of disposable ones.
These types of swaps are just as important as refilling containers and can save you money in the long run.
3. Support local businesses
It may sound like an obvious statement but there are so many places to shop these days. It can be overwhelming at times. Why not choose a shop that directly supports a community member that is trying to make a change in your community?
The more we financially support local businesses the better they can thrive. We can divest money from larger companies that may not be as sustainably minded.
4. Support local artisans
One of my favorite parts of shopping at a zero waste store is that it often carries products made by local artisans that are also passionate about reducing waste.
People are finding innovative ways to combat the trash issue and it feels good to support them.
One creative product I have seen recently is an artist that makes glass reusable straws using a free handed flamework technique. They are absolutely beautiful and they help people reduce their plastic straw usage! You can find her work here.
5. Most products sold are organic, non toxic and/or not harmful to the environment
When zero waste shop owners are curating the products in the shop they are looking for items that align with the sustainability values of the shop.
You may want to check out the website of the shop or ask the owner but in my experience, there seems to be a good selection of high-quality products no matter which shop I have been to.
6. Generally a one stop shop for cleaning supplies, toiletries, food etc.
Of course, I don’t get everything from this one shop but it carries a lot of the basics.
Here’s a quick list of refill options my local zero waste shops have:
- Cleaning supplies (all purpose cleaner, dish soap, laundry detergent etc.)
- Food (beans, coffee, pasta, tea, rice etc.)
- Hair care (shampoo, conditioner etc.)
- Skincare (moisturizer, cleansers, toners, sunscreen etc.)
- Makeup
- Essential oils
- Pet shampoo
- Dental care (tooth tabs & mouthwash tabs)
Some non refill items I have gotten at the shop are reusable straws, dryer balls, sustainable phone cases etc.
7. Meet other people that are interested in the zero waste lifestyle.
Sometimes it can feel lonely in the world of sustainable living. Maybe you have friends that are into it but not AS into it as you are. Or maybe people have made comments about it being a waste of time because “climate change isn’t real”.
It can be nice to shop at a place where you KNOW the other shoppers are on the same wavelength as you in terms of sustainability.
It is easier to make big life changes while in community. You do not need to feel alone as you transition to a more sustainable lifestyle.
In fact, we need everyone we can get!
8. Learn new things and participate in events at the shop
Some zero waste shops go beyond just offering a place to shop but also offer educational opportunities too.
Anything from book swaps and clothing swaps to plastic art workshops. Community events like trash pick up or beach clean ups are popular events that zero waste shops host too.
This is another way you can meet like minded people and learn more about sustainability topics.
9. Make it more popular for people to shop that way
Wouldn’t it be nice if every store had a refill section? From mom and pop shops to bigger brands?
The more we support stores that are offering sustainable options the more likey bigger companies will take notice and be forced to follow. Consumers can make a big impact if we show what we want to spend our money on.
If you are looking for a guide on how to shop at a zero waste store I’ve got you covered here!
10. Make healthier choices
When I think of a bulk food section I picture beans, rice, dried fruits, nuts, seeds etc.! It is all nutrient dense food that can help you and your family feel good.
If you are trying to make healthier choices for your own well being and the earth’s, zero waste shops (and bulk stores/farmer’s markets) are a great place to check out.
Conclusion
Just writing this list made me feel more amped to prioritize my zero waste and bulk food shops more!
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get everything zero waste. It really is not possible in our current system. I think it is important to stay inspired, keep learning and do what you can within your budget and capacity to reduce waste.
Do you have a zero waste shop near you? What kinds of items does your shop carry or what do you wish it carried? (Hi tofu in plastic packaging that I can never find zero waste!)
Would you ever consider opening up your own shop or website that offers sustainable options?
I would love to hear about your ideas in the comments below!
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Stay well,
Maggie
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