SUSTAINAB I L I TY
Zero to Hero GET YOUR GLASS BOTTLES AND CONTAINERS AT THE READY – LET’S FILL UP ON ZERO-WASTE SHOPPING ECO CAMBRIDGE
WORDS BY ALEX FICE
t’s no secret that we need to change our attitudes towards single-use plastic and waste production. Although we may try to ‘do our bit’ by recycling plastic packaging, it can only be repurposed so many times before making its way to landfill. For this reason, we need to see recycling as a last resort, rather than a goal, which means it’s time to look for more impactful alternatives. Zero-waste shops
While many agree that a waste-free lifestyle is the way forward, lots of things stop us from making the switch to more sustainable shopping habits: the main one being that we are creatures of habit – we just don’t like change! Co-owner of zero-waste store Full Circle, Johanna Laibe, recognises that adapting your routine can feel daunting. But she encourages people to be kind to themselves and
provide a solution to mindless plastic
start small, recalling a favourite quote of hers by chef Anne- Marie Bonneau: “We don’t need a handful of people doing zero-waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.” Johanna suggests
WE JUST DON’T LIKE CHANGE
consumption, offering a supply of loose fruit, veg and bread – and a vast selection of refill stations for oil, dried goods, spices, baking supplies, cleaning products and more. Many stores also
stock beauty products, ranging from bath bombs and plastic-free razors to reusable cotton pads, face masks and eco-friendly makeup. More and more, it is common to find that zero-waste and refill shops offer home delivery or a click-and-collect service, making it easier than ever to migrate your weekly shop away from plastic-packed supermarkets.
making simple, small adjustments based on lifestyle, such as investing in a refillable cup if you like to buy coffee on the way to work – or purchasing reusable cotton pads instead of makeup remover wipes. These items may seem more expensive than their single-use alternatives, but bear in mind they are investments that will begin to pay for themselves after several uses.
60 APR I L 2022 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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