Shopping Sustainably in Edinburgh

The refill station at The Eco Larder, West End. Photo taken by Lucy Turquand-Young

Shopping from mainstream supermarkets can be difficult for someone who is trying to shop more sustainably for the planet. Most food products come wrapped up in unnecessary plastic or the food itself is not sustainable (such as fruit that is not in season). This is not great for our environment.

To help you out (and the planet), we have curated a list of local sustainable shops in Edinburgh.

1. The Eco Larder (West End & New Town)

The Eco Larder provides customers with a zero-waste shopping experience to protect the planet. According to the shop, “The Eco Larder is a Social Enterprise on a mission to create a plastic free Edinburgh”. The business is family run and often holds events such as craft clubs, workshops and beach cleans. You can find anything from zero waste shampoo bars to delicious looking seasonal fruits and veg.

2. The Refillery (Waverley, Corstorphine & Newington)

The Refillery is known for their wide selection of foods that can be refilled on their premises. They ask customers to bring in containers/jars/reusable bags as they do not package most of their food products to reduce waste. They sell grocery food, fresh produce, beauty and care items, cleaning products and more. They also provide a handy delivery service if you are too busy to take a trip to one of their three locations.

3. The New Leaf Co Op (Argyle Place)

The New Leaf Co Op is a local wholefood shop in Edinburgh. They sell fresh, local produce with minimal packaging. You can fill your own jars/packets with grains, pastas, vegetables etc to reduce plastic. They also offer over 100 loose herbs and spices for those who want to add a little something extra to their food.

4. Weigh To Go (Leith Walk)

Weigh To Go sells a huge variety of affordable dried foods that you can fill in your own containers, or you can buy reusable containers, jars and bottles at the store. They also sell refills for household items such as washing up liquid, dishwasher powder, conditioner, shampoo and a lot more.

Don't forget to take your reusable bags and containers with you!

Come with us to The Eco Larder: