Origins:
At GreenTree Co-op we took a hard look leading up to Earth Day 2026 to see if where we were missing the marks on sustainability as a grocery co-op. When we're immersed in the day-to-day functions of a grocery store, management and staff can become complacent and focus on fires to put out versus areas to improve on to make the products, the store, the shopper, and the community a better place! WE realized that we were seeing over 700 plastic bags leave our store in the bulk department alone as shoppers bought small pinches and teaspoons of herbs and spices, or stocking up on gallon sized bags of rolled oats and popcorn kernels. We immediately researched and decided to move our bulk plastic bags to Compostic brand due to their backyard compost ability as the town doesn't have commercial high-heat composting available. What an easy way to impactfully reduce plastic in our neighborhood and still offer the same service!
Contribution:
Started reviewing and researching options in April 2026. The General Manager personally tried out a few options in that first week. The GM and the Grocery Manager decided on Compostic brand which offered the same three sizes we offered previously in plastic options. We set a card out by the new bags asking shoppers if they had feedback on the new bags - good or bad - to please let us know! We haven't looked back!
Objectives:
Reduce plastic in the store, specifically in the bulk department at least 25% by offering plastic alternatives for shoppers to use in addition to bringing their own containers to fill as well as buying empty containers the store has available for purchase.
Impact:
We relied on customer feedback in person, by suggestion box, and via digital means (social media, email, etc.). It was crickets which we took to mean that no one had strong objections. Staff tried out a few plastic reduced and plastic-free options before collaborating and deciding to choose Compostic brand. We are still taking customer feedback, ongoing as it's such a new program.
Quote:
Reducing plastic in the bulk department is just one small way that the Co-op continued to look for ways to improve our shopper's experience and to have them leaving the store knowing that their choices positively impact the environment around them. I am proud to offer this program! --Megan Fisher, General Manager
Support Statement:
I really like the new compostable bags in bulk. It makes me feel less guilty when I forget my bags at home! --Brent, customer and long-time Co-op Owner
Industry Topics address your specific area of expertise with resources, reports, events and more.
Our Research covers consumer behavior and retail operation benchmarks so you can make informed business decisions.
Events and Education including online and in-person help you advance your food retail career.
Food Safety training, resources and guidance that help you create a company food safety culture.
Government Affairs work — federal and state — on the latest food industry policy, regulatory and legislative issues.
Get Involved. From industry awards to newsletters and committees, these resources help you take advantage of your membership.
Best practices, guidance documents, infographics, signage and more for the food industry on the COVID-19 pandemic.
