Zero Waste Supermarkets in Madrid and Barcelona: The Anti-Plastic Revolution Has Begun
The two pioneering "zero waste" supermarkets in Spain are "Yes Future" in Barcelona (the first to open) and Umpacked Shop in Madrid, which followed in its footsteps. There are now many in major European cities. Are we witnessing the markets of the future?
The French have always embraced going to the market with their straw baskets. We haven't quite adopted that yet, but awareness is gradually awakening. There's no choice. Perhaps it's time to reconsider if a more sustainable way of consuming is possible. And yes, it is. The key is reuse. Going shopping with our fabric bags, our jars and bottles, and buying products in bulk could be the start... why buy a new plastic bottle of oil when you can just refill a glass bottle at the store?
"Umpacked Shop" located at 28 Narváez Street in Madrid, near Retiro Park, was the first "zero waste" supermarket in Madrid. There is not a single packaged product or plastic item. It's 120 square meters of store space where you can buy all kinds of organic foods in bulk, including various types of flours that are milled on-site... teas, spices, legumes, pasta, sweets, and cereals... everything you need for your grocery basket. Additionally, eco-friendly beauty products are available (toothpaste, bio detergents, natural sponges made from plants, solid shampoos, reusable organic cotton makeup removers, cotton swabs made from natural fibers... there are also eco-friendly feminine hygiene items, from cloth pads to menstrual cups.
Products are packaged in recycled paper bags, fabric, or glass jars that you can bring from home or buy on-site, encouraging not only a more sustainable purchase that likely generates less waste (since buying in bulk means you only purchase what you need) but also fostering a culture of recycling and reuse.
At "Unpacked" shop, you can also shop online and have your order delivered to your home, provided it exceeds an amount of 50 euros. You also have a variety of containers available for purchases or transporting your meals, ranging from stainless steel containers to small fabric or mesh bags for bulk shopping.
More info at unpackedshop.es/
Pioneers of "Zero Waste" in Spain, Yes Future
This Barcelona shop located at number 66 Viladomat Street was the pioneer of the "zero waste" concept in Spain. At the entrance, a clear declaration of intent: "The future is this way" and further along, another even bolder: "Fuck Plastic". In this minimalist store with very Nordic decor, there is not a single plastic container, and customers come with their own reusable containers or buy them right there. The offer is vast: bulk products and eco beverages, not only talking about food, but also beauty and cleaning items that promote eco-responsible consumption and combat single-use plastics. You will also see reusable containers, such as stainless steel straws, etc.
What is still lacking in these stores is fresh product, except for eggs, which are available and easier to sell in bulk. "Yes Future" plans to include fresh products soon, along with organic and seasonal fruits and vegetables.