Today we are focusing on shopping and although most of what I talk about has to do with groceries the same principles can be applied to shopping for other things.

Just like with my previous blog Out and about a lot of the work around shopping sustainably is in the preparation. Make sure you have your reusable bags on you, a glass jar or two, and take time to do some research into your local shops.

Where?

Where you shop is as important as what you are shopping for. If you find the right places/s, and build in routines that take you there regularly, then you are more likely to make eco-friendly purchases.

My top suggestion would be to find a local organic zero waste shop. That way the goods they sell should be what you are wanting to invest in.

Local - Shopping somewhere that sells local goods reduces your carbon footprint.

Organic - Produce that is organic means that you and the environment are not damaged by harmful pesticides.

Zero waste - At its best options that are zero waste should be able to be consumed fully by you or composted.

If a zero waste shop proves elusive or it’s not a realistic practice to integrate into your weekly routine then here are some alternatives to consider:

• Get a local organic Veg Box delivered to your door weekly

• Go old school and find a local dairy that delivers milk in glass bottles

• Bulk order from an online shop that stocks eco-friendly products

• Look into sustainable toiletries with subscription services

• Shop at your usual stores but use the questions below when making purchases

What?

No matter where you are shopping make sure to ask these two questions of any items you are thinking of buying:

1. What is the product itself made of?

2. What does it come packaged in and what is that made of?

How far you want to take these questions is up to you but they will at least help you to think though the implications of your purchases. For example, based on the end life of materials that we looked at in Trash Talk, you can consider where a product or its packaging is going to end up once you are done with it. Will it (along with any packaging it comes in) be harmful to the environment?

Some great answers to the question “what is it made of?” include:

• Organic matter that I or my compost will enjoy consuming

• Recyclable paper, glass or metal

• Nothing, there is no packaging!

What, where and how

So in summary, when heading out to get groceries or ordering online remember to take your own bags, refuse receipts and plastic bags. Choose loose produce and package-less items wherever you can. Even if the packaging is recyclable, sustainable or environmentally friendly, the best option is still to go without it!

Where some sort of packaging is required, try to take your own container or material bag to refill with loose, dry or liquid goods (this is how zero waste stores work). Otherwise choose products contained in recyclable paper, glass or metal.

And remember to make your weekly shopping routines sustainable for you, your time and lifestyle! That way you will be able to stick with it and make long lasting, positive, changes for the planet.