27. Local shop
Whether you have a local bakery, a farmer’s market, or a natural food shop, you will find that the packaging used on their items is substantially less. In some cases, fruits and vegetables are taken in baskets directly from someone’s farm and placed in containers ready for customers to buy. This is practical experience from farm to table. The same can be said about buying clothes, decorations, and other items from local art shows or craft fairs.
Shopping at small businesses also helps your local economy, instead of supporting a large corporation. Many thrift shops in the small town will contribute directly to a local charity. So if you buy from your local thrift store, this will instantly return to your community instead of a company. And if you also make regular donations, you might feel good knowing that you’re essentially recycling objects between you and your neighbors.
