Low Waste Directory

 CONNECTING YOU WITH LOCAL SUSTAINABLE BUSINESSES & CIRCULAR ECONOMY INITIATIVES

After doing thousands of litter cleanups in the Lake Ontario area, we have seen the impact of our plastic pollution problem firsthand. To tackle this problem, we’ll need all hands on deck, from individuals to governments to businesses large and small. In creating this directory, we wanted to connect our supporters with low-waste resources, while also highlighting the amazing work of some of our local businesses and circular economy initiatives.

This is an ever-growing resource, so if we’re missing your favourite low-waste local business then let us know! Email info@agreenerfuture.ca with your recommendation.

 Low Waste Shopping Tips

Shelves filled with jars and glass containers, some with cloth covers and tied with string, in a neutral-colored room.
Icon of a shopping bag with a leaf symbol inside

Only buy what you need - excess food can lead to excess waste

Plastic bag and a straw and a recycling symbol in a circle

Remember your reusables - don’t forget to bring your reusable bags and containers (cleaned and dry) to avoid unnecessary single-use plastics. Many of the stores in our directory offer deposit programs on refillable containers if you forget to bring your own.

A stylized leaf inside a jar or container

Weigh your containers - when shopping in bulk, don’t forget to weigh your containers before filling them. If you’re not sure how, just ask!

Medical symbol with a cross inside a square, surrounded by dotted circles

Do what’s best for you - avoid the pressure of feeling like you need to do waste reduction perfectly. Not every “zero waste swap” will work for you, and that’s okay.

Line drawing of a store with an awning, a window, and a door. A recycling symbol is in the upper right corner.

Support local small businesses - like the ones in our directory!

 Food Businesses

 Low-Waste Stores

 Lending Libraries

 Explore our Action Guide

Litter including plastic drink cups and straws, tangled blue fishing net, and other debris on sandy beach.
Fresh vegetables including broccoli, zucchini, cucumbers, green beans, carrots, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and other produce displayed in baskets at a market stall.
A rack of colorful pants hanging on hangers against a white brick wall.
Close-up photograph of a green printed circuit board (PCB) with various electronic components, including integrated circuits, resistors, and capacitors.