New Jersey's Sustainable Spring Essentials
Start the warm-weather season by going green. In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, Edible Jersey spoke with refill markets around the state to bring you this sustainable, spring-essentials checklist.
✅ SEEDED GREETING CARDS
Whether sending an invitation or writing a thank-you note, these seeded greeting cards are a great alternative to the traditional paper option. They’re perfect to “plant once done,” says Sabrina Ahmed, owner of Zero to 180 Market in Morristown. Once planted, they’ll grow into various plant or flower varieties, depending on the card. zeroto180.shop
✅ MISMATCHED CHINA DINNERWARE
Avoid purchasing plastic plates and utensil party sets by renting recycled dinnerware instead. Sustainable Haus offers customers the opportunity to rent vintage china in the form of cups, plates, napkins, and more for events up to 300 people. Plus, the bright colors are perfect for a springtime lunch gathering or dinner party. sustainablehaus.com
✅ BEE’S WRAP
That first-of-the-season farmers’ market will have you purchasing plenty of fresh food, from breads to meats. This beeswax-based food storage wrap is reusable for up to one year, and it’s the perfect alternative to plastic wrap. Beyond just the farmers’ market, this wrap is “perfect for prepared food or takeout,” says Janette Spiezio, owner of Sustainable Haus in Summit. sustainablehaus.com
✅ NATURAL SUNSCREEN
Protect your skin while outdoors with sunscreen that won’t damage the planet. Zero to 180’s Ahmed recommends going with a chemical-free, mineral-based sunscreen option, such as Brooklyn Made Natural, which also softens the skin with its shea butter and coconut oil base. zeroto180.shop
✅ FLORAL DISH CLOTHS
Bring spring into your kitchen with decorative dish towels, such as the Swedish floral cloths available at The Refill Market in Haddon Township. Owner Tina Solak says the cloths are “end-of-life compostable for a more sustainable alternative.” Other kitchenware options include loofah sponges, bamboo dish brushes, and washable cloth sponges. therefillmarketnj.com
PHOTOS:BEE’S WRAP AND DISH RENTAL, JANETTE SPIEZIO; OTHERS, COURTESY OF ZERO TO 180 AND THE REFILL MARKET NJ
