Plastic packaging and single-use items are all around, from bottles of shampoo and conditioner to the cling-wrap used to wrap up leftovers — and that’s to say nothing of the plastic boxes and bags that food is packaged in. To cut back on that waste and live more sustainably in 2024, check out some of NoVA’s zero-waste stores. They offer sustainable swaps for those everyday items and let shoppers buy food items in bulk without producing more waste.
Trace — The Zero Waste Store
This sustainable shop, located on Vienna’s Church Street, calls itself Fairfax County’s only bulk refill shop. Shoppers can fill up jars with bulk food items like beans, pasta, nuts, and spices, as well as household essentials like laundry detergent and dish soap. The shop also stocks items that promote a sustainable lifestyle, such as bar shampoo and reusable food storage containers. 140 Church St. NW, Vienna
Virginia Mercantile
Shoppers will find a mix of sustainable, locally sourced items in this shop. Swap out one-time-use cotton pads for the reusable cloth version, use drier sheets sold in paper packaging with no harsh chemicals, and try a metal razor rather than the disposable plastic ones. Plus, there are refills for lotions, oils, soaps, and spices — including some from Manassas-based Dizzy Pig Craft Seasonings. 12644 Chapel Rd., Ste. F, Clifton
Mason & Greens
Old Town Alexandria’s zero-waste store has all the essential green-living swaps for home items and beauty products, plus some fun extras. There are watercolor paints and paintbrushes that come without plastic, house plants, and dishware. All the bulk items are vegan — just remember to bring your own jar! 913 King St., Alexandria
Fillagreen
This sustainable shop and “refillery” offers pick-up and delivery services for those who live within a 10-mile radius of the store. Shoppers can place an online order then leave containers on their porch to be picked up, filled, and delivered for a fee. Those who live outside the delivery radius can shop in-store or online to find sustainable goods and refill on household items. 9029 Center St., Manassas
MOM’s Organic Market
This chain of environmentally friendly and organic grocery stores has a bulk section where shoppers can bring their own containers to stock up on coffee, rice, dry goods, and more. Plus, stores have recycling centers to dispose of old shoes, cellphones, cork, and composted food scraps. Multiple area locations
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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