In November of 2018, we announced our involvement with Climate Collaborative. Together with other natural grocers, food companies, and distributors, we are working to leverage the power of the natural products industry to reverse climate change. Read the Climate Collaborative manifesto here.
To support our participation with this group, we have formed our own Climate Committee at Kimberton Whole Foods, built from dedicated team members from all of our stores and departments. Together, we’ll be working to roll out one climate-focused initiative at at time: In this way, we will take small steps towards BIG change. Continue reading to see how you can join us, and to see what we’ve accomplished so far.
Recyclable Receipt Paper
Have you noticed the slight yellow color of our receipt paper? The color is due to the fact that they use Vitamin C to transfer the thermal print rather than harmful chemicals. While our receipts were always BPA-free, they are now BPS-free and recyclable. Better for your health, better for the planet. Learn more.
Bag Tree
Help yourself to our Bag Tree! Join us in reducing waste from single-use grocery bags by borrowing a reusable one when you shop. (We know, we always forget ours in the car, too!) Have extra (clean) bags at home? Bring them in and we’ll put them to good use.
Compostable Produce Bags
In our produce department, we offer biodegradable & compostable produce bags, made using non-GMO corn starch. (Bonus points if you save and re-use your bags to collect food scraps for your home compost pile!) Please note that these bags are compostable, or may be thrown in the trash – they are not recyclable. We do not recommend storing your produce in these bags for more than 48 hours, as the material may speed ripening.
BYO Jars
Bring your own containers when you buy foods from our bulk section for zero waste shopping. Remember to stop by a register before you fill up, so a team member can weigh your containers. Here’s a helpful tip for labeling your jars.
Reusable Straws
Did you know that in the United States alone, an estimated 500 million straws are discarded EVERY DAY? Join us in a global movement to eliminate plastic drinking straws from landfills, beaches, oceans, and streams. Opt for a metal straw the next time you order a beverage in our Cafรฉ!
BYO Thermos
Bring your own cup or thermos when ordering juices, smoothies, coffees, and teas! This is one simple way that we encourage you to reduce single-use materials in your everyday life.
Reducing Food Waste
We work with local farmers to repurpose our organic, compostable food waste into farm gold! We’re proud to work with producers like Shellbark Hollow Farm and Meg’s Eggs, who use our compost to feed their pigs, hens, and of course, to make nutrient-rich compost.
Low-Waste Staff Party
This year for our annual staff party, we made an effort to produce as little waste as possible, by providing a compost bucket for food scraps, and encouraging team members to bring their own beverage cups and utensils. Every bit counts!
Our Distribution Center
Our distribution center in Downingtown serves as a central location for our local vendors, and reduces the number of trips (and carbon emissions) that they would otherwise take to our 6 stores. When you buy local, you are also making a positive choice for the planet.
Sustainable Farming Partners
We support the work of organizations like the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) and the Biodynamic Association, because we believe that truly responsible farming is the way to a sustainable future. We proudly donate to both organizations as well as participate in the annual Produce for PASA campaign and Sustainable Agriculture Conference.
