Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities. At South Melbourne Market, sustainability is something we are passionate about and we’re striving to reduce our environmental footprint and create a sustainable Market for future generations to enjoy.
If you're looking at reducing single-use plastic in your household, read on to see which of our Market traders can help.
BYO container and fill up with a large range of cleaning and soap products for the kitchen, bathroom and laundry, all made locally from pure plant and essential oils that are not harmful to you or the earth (pictured above). Grace has been at the Market for over 20 years, so was well and truly ahead of the game when it comes to looking out for the environment. Some of her customers have been filling reusable containers for over 20 years - a pretty impressive statistic when you think how much waste they have saved going to landfill!
The Australian Natural Soap Company
While you're at it, have you thought about switching to soap bars instead of using bottled body wash, shampoo and conditioner?
The Australian Natural Soap Company are leading the way with their range of soaps - with varieties available for all skin and hair types.
They even have dog shampoo! Their range is also free from all the nasty stuff (palm oil, detergent and parabens) and biodegradable. Worth a try we think!
Did you know most of the leading tea brands make tea bags with plastic? Ick. The tea bags at Tea Drop are made with a lovely thing called Soilon, which is composed of biomass material derived from plants, plus they also offer loose leaf tea - a much better alternative!
Replace plastic cling wrap with sustainable beeswax wraps. Babe's Eggs have a wide range of sizes and designs available, which are all natural, eco-friendly and handmade. Plus they are easier to use than cling wrap and a whole lot prettier!
A shopping bag mecca! Find reusable shopping bags, totes and trolleys here and say no to plastic.
BYO container to The Pet Grocer to stock up on meals and treats for your furry and feathered friends. Their Market lab is able to customise meals specific to your pet's needs, and all their products are natural and free from synthetic additives.
The Weekly Grocery Shop
Have a look in your pantry and fridge and see how much plastic packaging there is. There are so many ways to reduce this by shopping at a local Market instead of a supermarket (and we bet it will be fresher and tastier too!).
Why not...
Shop at the butcher to avoid pre-packaged meats on polystyrene trays wrapped in plastic
- Avoid packaged bread by shopping at a bakery or deli
- BYO containers to the Market to stock up on nuts, legumes, coffee, beans, sugar, flour, oats and rice
- Choose products packaged in glass (such as milk, honey and condiments) or paper (such as cereals, chocolates, butter) instead of plastic
- Opt for reusable produce bags for fruit and vegetables