Sunny Side of Sustainability: Green Road Refill Puts Cape Cod on the Green Map
What is Green Road Refill?
In my last post, I introduced you to Love Live Local, a nonprofit in Cape Cod that encourages people to shop locally and support their communities. One of the businesses that Love Live Local partners with is an eco-friendly shop called Green Road Refill.
Today, I’m thrilled to take you on a deep dive into the sustainable world of Green Road Refill and hear from shop owner Jess Georges. Join me on this informative and entertaining journey as we explore the store’s mission, meet Jess, and discover the plethora of sustainable products and resources Green Road Refill offers. So buckle up and prepare to be inspired to start making a positive impact on our planet!
Meet Jess Georges (and Koko)
To truly understand the essence of Green Road Refill, I need you to meet the visionary individual behind it all. Jess Georges launched her business in May of 2018 as a mobile retail store. In the last couple of years, she has opened a beautiful storefront in Brewster. With her contagious passion for sustainability, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to the environment, Jess is a true force of nature.
As Jess showed me around the store, I was captivated by her inspiring story and her dedication to creating a place where people can both shop locally and sustainably. Not to mention, her adorable dog (and store mascot), Koko, greeted me with a friendly kiss!
Their Mission: Paving the Way Towards a Sustainable Lifestyle
At Green Road Refill, the mission is crystal clear: to foster a more sustainable way of living and inspire the community to take action. Jess and her team are on a relentless quest to reduce plastic waste, support local artisans, and educate individuals about the power of conscious consumerism. By offering a wide range of eco-friendly alternatives, they aim to make sustainable living accessible, affordable, and exciting for everyone.
Storefront Products & Amazing Prices
As I wandered through the shop, I was amazed by the diverse selection of sustainable products available. From everyday essentials to unique and innovative finds, the store boasts an impressive variety to help you reduce your environmental footprint. And guess what? The prices are as attractive as the products themselves, making sustainable choices easier on your wallet.
Some items you can expect to see are biodegradable cleaning solutions, additive-free beauty products, and all-natural candles. To see the full list of products available for purchase at Green Road Refill, click here.
Rethink Refill Process
Initially, what captured my interest in visiting the Green Road Refill store was Jess’s “Rethink Refill” philosophy. With this process, you are able to choose from over 40 plant-based soaps, shampoos, lotions, and cleaning products that are sold by the weighted ounce. When you stop by, bring a plastic bottle of any size. It can be an empty perfume bottle, laundry detergent container, etc. First, Jess will weigh your empty bottle. Next, you will choose your product and fill your bottle however much you want. Lastly, you will “weigh and pay.” All prices are extremely reasonable and are listed under the “Menu” section of the website. If you forget a plastic container, don’t worry! Jess also has a donation basket where you can pick from various containers.
This innovative refill process made me realize how easy it is to shop sustainably. Not only are you getting a product that is good for you and the planet, but you are also reducing packaging waste and saving money. The best part is that this refill process allows you to try different products. You don’t have to buy a whole bottle of shampoo to find out if you like it. Since you pay per weight, you get to decide how much of each product you want!
Candles by Tarraza
Amidst the myriad of eco-friendly treasures, one standout category that deserves a special mention is the exquisite collection of hand-poured, all-natural Candles by Tarraza. Crafted from sustainable soy wax and infused with delightful fragrances, these candles create a cozy atmosphere while minimizing your carbon footprint. These candles smelled incredible, and my favorite scents were “Coconut Milk” and “Sandalwood.” All scents are phthalate-free, skin-safe, and colored with evo dye (a vegetable oil derivative).
Deliveries & Markets
Green Road Refill understands the importance of convenience in our busy lives. That’s why they offer local delivery services, bringing sustainable goodness right to your doorstep. With their efficient delivery system, you can enjoy the benefits of eco-friendly products without leaving the comfort of your home, making sustainable choices as easy as a few clicks.
I hope you are feeling inspired to visit the Green Road Refill shop in person. You can also find Jess and Green Road Refill products at the Orleans Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Her mobile set-up, called the “Sally Sue Shed,” can also be seen at the Love Local Fests, which were discussed in my last blog post!
2020 C.A.R.E for the Cape and Islands Stewardship Award
Green Road Refill’s unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship has not gone unnoticed. In 2020, they were honored with the prestigious C.A.R.E for the Cape and Islands Stewardship Award, recognizing their outstanding efforts in promoting sustainability and fostering a greener community. This accolade serves as a testament to their commitment and inspires us all to join their mission. I am so proud of Jess for receiving this award, and I can assure you it is well deserved! Jess also received the 9th Annual Norm Edinberg Award for Excellence in Community Service in April, 2023.
Resources: Ways You Can Reduce Your Plastic Footprint!
Ready to take your sustainable journey to the next level? Green Road Refill has got you covered with their comprehensive resource section. Discover a wealth of tips, tricks, and DIY projects that will help you reduce your plastic footprint and make a positive impact. From reusable alternatives to practical suggestions for everyday life, these resources empower you to become an eco-champion.
Additionally, you can sign up for their email newsletter on their website and follow Jess on Instagram to see all upcoming events, new products, and cute pictures of Koko.
Reflection & Thoughts: A New Perspective
As I reflect on my enlightening conversation with Jess and my exploration of Green Road Refill, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and inspiration. The dedication of Jess and her team to creating a more sustainable world is truly awe-inspiring. Their store is not just a shopping destination; it’s a sanctuary where eco-conscious individuals come together, share ideas, and make a difference.
I think many of us feel overwhelmed by the idea of choosing to shop zero waste. Personally, I felt this way up until visiting Green Road Refill and talking to Jess. She showed me that there are very simple ways you can adjust your lifestyle to be more conscientious of the environment – and that sustainable products are not as expensive as you’d think.
I purchased the coconut scour pads, which are heavy-duty cleaning scrubbers that are made from coconut husk and recycled plastic. This 3-pack only costs $5.50, and I can’t believe how well it works. I’ve even gotten my family hooked on using them when cleaning the dishes!
While I am still very new to learning how to shop sustainably I am no longer filled with doubts and worry. Together, we can create a greener future, one conscious choice at a time! Please feel free to share some ways that you live a sustainable lifestyle so we can help each other out!
Until next time,
Cassie 🙂
Photo Credit: All photos taken by Cassidy Wilson unless otherwise noted
