A new zero-waste shop, Two Rivers Refill, is opening in Christchurch tomorrow (Friday 7th February, 2020). It’s located in the parade of shops near Waitrose on the Fountain Way roundabout.

Jodie Firmin gave up her career as an events organiser to get the shop up and running. She was spurred into action by her sons - and the younger generation in general who are driving us forward with plant-based diets and making choices based on our environment. Jodie had started zero waste shopping herself (at The Naked Pantry in New Milton and Almond & Co. in Westbourne), but realised we were missing a local option in Christchurch. She says:

“People need to learn how to use zero waste. I don’t want it to be scary. Start with just one thing. Fill a jar with pasta - you’ll spend less than a pound and you’ll save plastic packaging from going into landfill.”

The hygienic dispensers that line one wall are filled with cereals, nuts, seeds, rice, beans and lentils, the majority of which is organic and supplied by Forest Whole Foods. You can also buy eggs, herbs, spices and gluten-free flour. There is a corner to refill your hand soap, washing liquid, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc.

Jodie will be stocking lovely things from local brands, such as coffee from the Forest Edge Roasting Co., hemp products from Dorset Hemp and eco wipes/kitchen roll/face cloths/sanitary towels from Eco Coach House. In time, Jodie intends to make it possible to shop online and even to offer a ‘Click and Collect’ service.

At the back of the shop there is space for a community area, which Jodie envisages being a place for shoppers to sit and have a coffee and for kids to play. She also has grand plans to start workshops and talks around the theme of recycling, repurposing and cooking.

Small changes make a big difference

Here’s how it works:

• Bring your own container, buy a container in the shop or use a paper bag.

• Get your container weighed so you’re only paying for the contents.

• Fill up with your chosen goods, then reweigh.

• Pay

• Tell your friends and family!

Here’s wishing Jodie and Two Rivers Refill the best of luck for tomorrow and beyond.

2 The Saxon Centre, Fountain Way, Christchurch, BH23 1QN