Manchester continues to make headlines for sustainability, from Europe’s largest living wall, the recently launched Bee Transport Network and Manchester being crowned the fastest adopters of EV vehicles per capita, it’s fair to say, whilst some parts of the city maybe red and others are blue, we’re happy to find a mutual ground in green!
So, in celebration of World Environment Day, we take at some city’s best places to shop green and keep some change in your pockets.
Want Not Waste, Oxford Road
Located at The University of Manchester, Want Not Waste is the first student run zero waste shop in the city. Their plastic free policy allows shoppers to save and refill containers with products such as nuts, cereal, coffee beans and even vegan sweets – all weighed and charged for per 100g. Make sure you check it out, they even stock household essentials.
Beg Steal Borrow, Affleck’s Palace, Church Street
Affleck’s Palace ‘Beg Steal Borrow’ offers the option to trade “lightly worn funky pieces” for another item in the store, as well as thrifting their unique clothing items. Run by Erin Taylor-Thomas who’s originally from Nashville in The States, she set up the store to help Manc’s adopt more frugal living habits. Shoppers can also visit the online store where there is an “under £5” section full of preloved pieces – and some bargains as low as £2.50!
General Store, Ancoats
General Store has been popping up across the region at some rate, with six now dotted around Manchester. General Store stands out from the crowd as they have a “Foodhall” with products sourced from local street food suppliers and a refillable grains and pasta section. The chain acts as a coffee bar, post office, and florist all in one, and hosts workshops, booze filled parties and rotating food traders. Impressive, right?
Another Hand, Deansgate Mews
Looking for somewhere to eat on World Environment Day? Look no further than independent Another Hand. Using the best produce sourced from around the North West, they are veggie led but have meat options too and ensure all their ingredients are responsibly farmed and sourced.
Lentils and Lather, Withington
Ditching the shrink wrap doesn’t need to stop at free food, both ‘Lentils and Lather’ stores stock sustainable books, cutlery, gifts and more. Their food line includes organic fruit and veg, artisan sourdough, free range eggs and fresh oat milk. Only buying the quantity you need is less waste, both on packaging and pennies, they also offer delivery from their online shop, for anyone in Manchester city centre.