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“The goal has always been to make zero-waste shopping easy,” said Glass Pantry Founder Jenna Meier. Living sustainably hasn’t always been Meier’s purpose in life. Instead it was something she always enjoyed, but was frustrated it wasn’t easier to do in Milwaukee. So when she didn’t see a zero-waste and bulk-focused grocery store, Meier figured she would start her own.
Tucked away on the South end of 5th St. in Walker’s Point, the Glass Pantry is home to bulk dry goods, refillable soaps, reusable baby products, locally made cleaning supplies and more. Everytime I stop in. Often it can be difficult and overwhelming to completely alter our lives from the consumer culture we were born into; however, the more sustainable resources we find that can easily fit into our lives, the more invested we become in the wellbeing of our environment.
With sustainability being a passionate hobby in Meier’s life before that Glass Pantry, when she finally decided to open the Pantry’s doors, she was immediately consumed by the eco-friendly world. “You can feel a lot of pressure that you aren’t doing enough,” Meier states. “It is important to remember that every little step helps.” If you recycle but can’t bring yourself to composting, or if you buy organic goods but can’t give up eating meat, you are still doing your part to keeping this world around a little longer.
Furthermore, Meier agrees that shopping locally is often the most sustainable choice. “From the packaging to the transportation, buying locally sourced goods can easily reduce pollution and waste,” said Meier. “And you also can grow a relationship with your local farmers. I think it is important to know the people you are supporting. Plus, they are often more open to creative packaging solutions and working with you on sustainable projects.”
In the future Meier can’t wait to start hosting events and welcoming more people into her store. “I want this to be a welcoming and comforting place. Everyone should be welcome to stop in, grab coffee, chat with neighbors, learn about easy sustainability, and feel like they belong here.”
However, until these options become more available, Meier still welcomes people to stop by the store and pick up some great food and home goods. Be sure to bring your spice jars and reusable bags and she will be happy to help you fill them up with whatever you need.
