The University of Sheffield is committed to environmental protection and pushing green initiatives on campus and within the wider community. One of its most impressive and exciting initiatives is the Zero Waste Shop – a food shop that seriously limits the use of packaging and aims to completely eliminate waste generated by its business activities.

The shop sells mainly food, but also stocks household cleaning products such as washing liquid and laundry detergent. Green thinking is at the forefront of all activities – not only does the shop stock locally sourced and responsibly produced food including legumes, dried fruits and grains, but also provides household cleaning products in large containers that are then dispensed into the container brought by the customer and then reused. Paper bags are stocked so that they can be recycled easily and more unusual products such as bamboo cutlery and sustainable kitchenware are sold. All kitchen and toilet rolls are made from recycled paper. Other products include a range of eco-friendly toiletries. The shop is able to operate during both term time and breaks, though the opening hours are shorter during the holidays.

Other universities, including the University of Swansea, also have zero waste shops. The initiative seems to be taking off across the UK – keep your eye out for a zero waste shop near you and do your bit for the environment!

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