Sustainable shopping in Newcastle: where to find eco-conscious goods
Newcastle upon Tyne is not only a vibrant city with a rich history, but it’s also a hub for ethical and sustainable living. A growing number of businesses are prioritising environmental responsibility, fair trade, and social impact. So, if you’re looking to shop with a conscience, Newcastle has plenty to offer.
Eco-Friendly Fashion and Homeware
Firstly, for those seeking sustainable fashion, RE-fASHION is a must-visit. This social enterprise offers a curated collection of pre-loved clothing and accessories. They promote sustainable fashion by giving clothes a second life and reducing textile waste. Moreover, they provide training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged women, making a positive social impact.
Similarly, The Keep Boutique offers a range of ethical and sustainable clothing brands. They stock clothing made from organic cotton, recycled materials, and sustainable fabrics. Furthermore, they prioritise fair trade practices and support brands that empower workers and protect the environment.
In addition to fashion, Newcastle offers eco-conscious homeware options. Nil Living is a zero-waste shop that sells a range of sustainable household products, from refillable cleaning products and bamboo toothbrushes to beeswax wraps and reusable food containers. They encourage customers to reduce their environmental impact by offering refills and promoting sustainable alternatives.
Ethical Food and Drink
Newcastle also boasts a growing number of ethical food and drink businesses. The Honey Tree is a health food shop that stocks a wide range of organic, fair trade, and locally sourced produce. They prioritise healthy and sustainable food options, supporting local farmers and producers.
Likewise, Traidcraft is a fair trade organisation with a shop in Newcastle city centre. They sell a range of fair trade food, crafts, and gifts, supporting producers in developing countries and promoting ethical trade practices.
Moreover, many cafes and restaurants in Newcastle are committed to sustainability. Look for establishments that use local and seasonal produce, offer vegetarian and vegan options, and minimise their environmental impact.
Supporting Local and Social Enterprises
Furthermore, Newcastle is home to several social enterprises that use business to create positive social change. Food Nation is a social enterprise that tackles food poverty and promotes healthy eating. They run community cafes, cooking classes, and food banks, supporting vulnerable individuals and families.
Similarly, The Cycle Hub is a social enterprise that promotes cycling and sustainable transport. They offer bike hire, repairs, and cycling courses, encouraging people to choose a greener mode of transport.
Top Tip: Look for the Fairtrade logo when shopping in Newcastle. This indicates that the product has been ethically sourced and supports fair trade practices.
By supporting ethical businesses in Newcastle, you’re not only making conscious consumer choices but also contributing to a more sustainable and equitable community. So, next time you’re shopping in Newcastle, consider the impact of your purchases and choose businesses that align with your values.