BY CINDRA HALM, HEALTH AND BODY CARE, WEDGE
Sustainability is a core value at natural foods co-ops. At TCCP, we’re re-invigorating study, focus, and action with our newly formed Sustainability Committee. Comprised of interested workers, we hope to energize attention on cost-effective ways to use fewer and cleaner resources, processes, and materials; more responsible disposal methods; and clearer communication for this mission.

Natural foods co-op member-owners are inherently interested in good stewardship, and we can be even more committed in our ongoing sustainable practices.

Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle are familiar pathways to raise awareness, develop habits, and enact practices. Our first project: to more effectively channel waste into proper streams. All of our locations offer bins for compost, recycling and trash. Shoppers may soon notice more highlighted signage depicting what goes into each bin, different or increased placement of bins, and an increase in compostable materials overall. When waste lands in the proper stream, all ecologies benefit.

We invite all stakeholders to join us in these endeavors. Bulk buying is foundational to natural food co-op shoppers and a great place to re-invest, as is bringing your own bags and other containers. When you’re in the stores and about to toss something, ask yourself: does this juice bar cup make compost, recycling, or trash? Seek a staff member for help if needed.

COMPOST OUR BROWN PAPER TOWELS
Natural foods co-op member-owners are inherently interested in good stewardship, and we can be even more committed in our ongoing sustainable practices. They break down more easily than other materials, so be sure to channel them into the compost bin nearby.

REUSE YOUR UTENSILS
We sell bamboo forks/spoons that are easy to store in a bag, backpack, vehicle or locker. Although our to-go utensils are compostable…why must they have only one use? They’re sturdy and easily washed with soap and water and/or swabbed with alcohol wipes or vinegar so they can be reused.