Shopping Reinvented: Zero-Waste Stores

The concept of zero-waste stores with packaging materials alternative to plastics has emerged as an innovative mechanism to overcome the problems associated with single-use plastic (SUP) waste. These stores aim to minimize plastics and non-biodegradable packaging material, which may otherwise find its way into the environment impacting both human and environmental health, says Sukrit Joshi.

- Sukrit Joshi

Shanmughan, realizing that he had finished with rice at home, got up from his seat, picked up his grocery bag and left for the local kirana store. While leaving the room he saw the plastic packaging of the leftovers from the party last night... The plastic heap from last night's party was overwhelming. He proceeded with a deep sigh of despair.

The above imagery, perhaps, all of us identify to some extent. The Ghazipur landfill, which has now gained a height of 65 metres, frequently catching fire, is dangerous to human and environmental health. It has resulted in the air quality dipping from 'moderate' to 'very poor! One of the major contributions to these landfills are plastics. It is estimated that the country generates 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with per-capita waste generation almost doubling in the last five years.' Out of the total plastics manufactured in India, 43 per cent is used for packaging purpose. To tackle the menace of plastic packaging in the country, consumer behaviour needs to be shaped to incorporate a zero-waste approach to shopping that could discourage single-use plastics (SUPS).

The concept of zero-waste stores with packaging materials alternative to plastics has emerged as an innovative mechanism to overcome the problems associated with SUP waste. These stores aim to minimize plastics and nonbiodegradable packaging material, which may otherwise find its way into the environment impacting both human and environmental health. The necessity of reducing plastic consumption in the supply chain, especially SUPs, has already prompted the global community to adopt these stores in Europe and the USA. This is evident from a large number of physical and online stores across the continents, who have amassed a loyal clientele committed to practising a more sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle.