While many of us are still recovering from the holiday feasts and other celebrations, it’s also a good time to start better habits—especially for the sake of the environment. In case you didn’t know, January is Zero Waste Month in the Philippines.
If you’re thinking of finally making the switch to a more sustainable lifestyle, here are some stores around the Philippines that can help your journey.
Amgu – Cebu
Betty’s Apartment, Queen’s Rd, Cebu City
For our friends in Cebu, Amgu is a zero-waste store that sells product refills of common household needs and sustainable alternatives to everyday products. It carries pantry staples, personal care products and other reusable versions of typically disposable things. Make sure to bring your own container for refills!
Wala Usik Tiangge – Iloilo/Online
“Wala usik” which literally translates to “no waste,” is an online zero-waste store based in Iloilo. Aside from selling produce, household necessities and pantry staples, it also auctions off upcycled ceramics, earthenware and apparel. A portion of the auction proceeds is given to conservation and environmental education programs of the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation Inc.
Visit Wala Usik’s Instagram for more information
[READ: LOOK: Zero-waste sari-sari stores in Negros that have refilling stations]Zero Waste Refilling Station – Bohol
F. Rocha St., Tagbilaran City, Bohol
If you’re based in Bohol, Zero Waste Refilling Station has almost everything you need to get started on ditching plastic. Apart from basic household needs like soaps, detergents and pantry staples, it also sells locally-made, eco-friendly products from homegrown brands.
Happy Earth Store – Cagayan de Oro
Lane 101, Masterson Avenue, Cagayan de Oro
For zero-waste cooking enthusiasts in Cagayan de Oro, Happy Earth Store might just be your favorite new place (if it isn’t already). Happy Earth carries a huge selection of spices and ingredients, including hard-to-find items like superfood powder and real vanilla bean pods. If you’re still wary of leaving the house, it’s also on the delivery app Maxim.
Croft Bulk Foods – Davao City
Unit 5A & 6A Ruby Street, Corner Opal St., Marfori Heights, Davao City
Croft Bulk Foods isn’t kidding when it says bulk. The store carries an extensive range of plastic-free versions of common household needs stored in clear containers. And yes—it also has the famous, locally-grown cacao bean in-store.