The founders draw their idea from their experience starting and managing businesses. They've taken their focus on reducing costs and waste and applied it to sustainability, targeting an add-on with often dubious value-added. If you do end up buying whole grains on a whim, they'll provide you with a biodegradable container.
So far the project's secured its financing, location, permits, and most of its supply chain. All that's left is the renovation of the space (with recycled materials, of course) and they'll be open for business. Their choice of location, amid a food desert - an area lacking grocers, could prove a boon.
I'm a little surprised this idea hadn't already been conceived and implemented, as it makes sense from both business and environmental perspectives. Unfortunately though, unless you're in Austin, you're not going to find a zero-waste store near you.
But you can get the next best thing. I've already shared one sustainable shopping guide, but this one focuses on foods supplied locally and is a great resource for getting involved in a CSA (community supported agriculture). As a member, your produce will come to you packaging-free and from local sources, reducing energy consumption, pollution and other costs over the product lifecycle.
Plus you'll support local business. Why would I want to put money into the hands of those nearby instead of somewhere else? So they can then buy my products, boost government revenues, live better and generally keep the wheels turning; it's more likely to have a positive impact on me.
I'm not particularly protectionist with regard to trade but if I'm given the chance to support my immediate neighbors, even if it comes at a premium, I'm willing to. Sometimes it's not always about getting the cheapest vegetables.
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