According to Reissner, the store, unlike others, promotes waste minimization and environmentally sustainable practices. The Zero Waste Store Namibia, situated in Windhoek, the capital, encourages shoppers to bring their own containers, consume organic products, and limit single-use packaging.
Disappointed with the impact of waste on the climate and the environment, Reissner, a former hairdresser, decided to open the store after witnessing the success of similar businesses in South Africa and consulting with zero-waste experts like Bea Johnson.
The store allows customers to fill their containers with the required amount of products, potentially reducing excesses at home and encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their environmental impact.
Namibia adopted a ban on plastic carrier bags in 2018 to control pollution, supporting the mission of the Zero Waste Store Namibia, which also promotes the use of compostable paper bags.
Over the years, the store has expanded its offerings to include more than 120 high-quality products, with about 90 percent of cosmetics coming from local suppliers to encourage the consumption of organic and locally sourced items.
With only two known zero-waste stores in the country, Reissner believes Windhoek is a perfect location to promote sustainability, leading to the establishment’s growing popularity in recent years.
The store, which has two employees, also serves as an educational platform in addition to its role in promoting sustainable shopping habits. Despite challenges in expansion and importation, Reissner is hopeful that her store will positively influence business practices in Namibia.
As more shoppers embrace the concept of zero-waste, Reissner’s store has increased its trade, improved its profit margins, and contributed to a more sustainable country, aligning with the national goals for a greener environment.
