Monday 05-10-2020 - 11:29

It’s official, the students’ union Zero Waste shop has entered the building - the SU Central Supermarket building!

Fill your boots (or jars) with an array of dried goods with absolutely zero plastic packaging. We’ve got your cupboard staples covered, from penne pasta to porridge oats. Plus, plenty of tasty treats, new flavours and teatime inspiration, take a look…

 

 

•    penne pasta 
•    white basmati rice
•    long-grain brown rice
•    wholewheat fusilli
•    couscous 
•    organic popcorn
•    mixed nuts
•    Bombay mix
•    porridge oats
•    muesli
•    nut roast mix
•    vegan burger mix
•    mango slices 
•    yoghurt coated banana chips
 

The new dried goods dispensary joins a range of zero waste soaps and toiletries available from Central. The move comes as demand grows for sustainable goods in the face of the environmental crisis and thanks to the hard work of our Central Supermarket staff.

It was just over a year ago that Central Supervisor Pete Hunt suggested the addition to the store. After months of research, planning and presenting, Pete was able to secure the funds necessary and start the ball rolling.

Speaking about the project, Central Supervisor, Pete Hunt said: “It’s really exciting to finally start the trial of our Zero Waste section at Central. It’s been worked on behind the scenes for some time, and with help from the Student Eats network, it’s now being put into practice.  

Zero waste shopping really helps our customers reduce their environmental impact, as it minimises plastic involvement throughout the whole supply chain, cuts food waste whilst also offering competitive pricing.  

The section itself also incorporates recycled elements, with the wooden units created from reclaimed furniture from LUSU Living accommodation.   

As an SU store, I think it’s so important that we push to set the standard for environmental responsibility in the retail sector. I’m really proud of our existing initiatives; plastic bag and milk bottle recycling; and our partnership with Edible Campus, offering organic student grown fruit and veg for sale in store. Whilst the situation with Covid-19 presents a challenge, I feel we can make a success of this trial and see the section expanded in the future!”

 

We’d like to say a huge thank you to Pete and everyone involved in bringing the Zero Waste shop to life. We cannot wait for students to benefit from the improved accessibility to sustainable produce on campus.  

 

The students' union Central Supermarket is located on Pendle Avenue, between Pendle and Grizedale college and is open until 10PM daily. 

#SUstainability #GreenLancaster #ZeroWaste