Plastic-Free July has come around once again, and since the Central Coast has recognized itself as being one of Australia’s 6 certified ECO destinations, every Coastie is encouraged to embrace the challenge.
Living without plastic is a lot easier said than done. But with this list of local, sustainable destinations we’ve compiled for you, you’ll be shopping for food, décor, clothes and health products like an eco-warrior in no time – and living a healthier, more rewarding lifestyle while you’re at it.
How To Stock a Plastic-Free Pantry on the Central Coast
You might be thinking – how am I supposed to shop for food without plastic? What about milk and bread and… chocolate? You know, the necessities? Don’t worry, we have you covered for that, too.
Pure Bulk Foods, Ettalong
Our top go-to for the ultimate experience when it comes to plastic free shopping has to be Pure Bulk Foods in Ettalong. Hayley and the team have created a haven for those who are keen on lox tox, waste-free and conscious living. Stocking all the pantry items you could want and more. Their products are mostly organic and always high quality. Buying only what you need helps reduce waste not to mention you can BYO containers or pick from a range in-store.
Plus make sure to give them a little follow on the gram for great tips and tricks as well as some fab recipes.
Visit Pure Bulk Foods in store in Ettalong or online.
The Source, Erina
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With everything from confectionary, snacks and muesli to pasta, rice and grains, The Source in Erina Fair has all your pantry requirements sorted – and all completely Plastic-free. Browse their range of scoop-able products and meal kits online, and check out their guide on how to live a plastic-free lifestyle here.
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The Egg Shed, Erina Heights
The Egg Shed in Erina Heights has been operating for 75 years and prides itself on bringing the freshest Free range eggs and locally farmed products to all Coasties.
Fanelli Organics, Mangrove Mountain
Based in the Central Coast Hinterland, farmers Eden and Louise offer vege box pick ups at their Mangrove Mountain home or at the local markets, with customer’s produce pulled straight out of the ground the very same day. Check out their website here for more info on their story and offers.
Alan Foods, Jilliby
Straight from the paddock and onto your plate, Alan’s fortnightly Veggie bag subscription ensures you are always getting the fresh, seasonal nutrients you need. The bags are delivered straight to your door – plastic free, of course – and are only $26. Read about their sustainability mission here, involving their views on recycling, food waste and single use plastics.
Gosford Farmers Markets
Rain, hail or shine, the Gosford Farmers Markets are committed to bringing the Coast’s best farmers, producers and artisans together at Gosford Showground. Check out their calendar here to see their next dates!
Little Feet Gourmet, Ourimbah
Located in Ourimbah, this small scale market farm offers weekly mixed vegetable boxes full of chemical-free goodies. Get in touch with them via facebook about ordering one or picking it up at their farm gate.
RELATED: We meet the Eco Warriors of Eco Destination the Central Coast
Sustainable Shopping on the Coast
Avoca Beachside Markets
Bring along your own reusable bag and shop as much as you like at the dozens of stalls set up at the Avoca Beachside Markets, held every 4th Sunday of the Month 9am-2pm. There’s local art, jewellery, skincare, international food and more – all in an ambient, beachside environment filled with the tunes of local musicians. For more info, check out their website here.
Aussie Bread Bags, Avoca
Based in Avoca, eco-warrior owner Holly came up with the idea for Aussie Bread Bags after discovering that over 2000 tonnes of plastic were left to landfill every year from single-use plastic bread bags alone. She’s committed to stopping that, with her sustainable, durable (and gorgeous) bread and snack bags, made to Australian Bakers Industry Standards. Check out their socials for more eco-friendly shopping ideas here!
Vinnies – Erina Heights, Kincumber, East Gosford, Lisarow, The Entrance
Unfortunately, what we might consider “retail therapy” is not always so therapeutic for the environment, with many retailers using obscene amounts of plastic to sell their items. Shopping at op shops such as Vinnies is a great way to leave a better ecological footprint by cutting out plastic entirely.
You can check out our full list of the Central Coast’s best op shops right here: Central Coast Op Shops You Must Visit.
Azur Pure Skincare
Shop Azur Pure’s ecological skincare range made with premium Australian botanicals and join the Refill Revolution this July (and every other month!) With oils, salts, balms and lotions for every area of your skin care routine, these products are organic, vegan, Australian made and sustainable both inside and out. For more info on how to shop plastic-free when it comes to skincare products, check out the owner’s ‘I’m Plastic Free’ article and show your support for Plastic Free July with them via their online socials here.
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