Conscious Consumerism: Supporting Sustainable and Low-Waste Businesses in Saskatchewan

The recent focus on buying Canadian and buying local has generated new apps, like CanadianMade and O SCANada (Chatelaine), that allow consumers to scan product barcodes to see if they are sourced from Canada. This is an interesting time, causing us to think twice about where we are shopping and what we are buying. For me, this brings to light the concept of Conscious Consumerism:

“Conscious consumerism is a mindful approach to buying and using products. It's ultimately about consuming less, while making sure that what we do consume is sustainable.” (CleanHub)

Combining the themes of Conscious Consumerism and Supporting Local, for this month’s “Less in More” blog, here are a few examples of businesses from around the province that have committed to low waste practices:

1. Michael's Independent Grocer - Saskatoon
Michael’s Independent Grocer is my “go-to” grocery store, not only because it is within walking distance from my condo, but also because I learned that they are leading the charge to incorporate a low-waste mentality in their operations.

Michael Goleski, the Saskatonian owner of Michael’s Independent Grocer found a group called “LOOP”- an organization that works with farmers – that “puts farmers in touch with grocers who then provide them with safe feed and compost.” (650 CKOM)

In Saskatoon, most grocery stores have a relationship with the local food bank and donate their unsaleable, non-perishable groceries. (SWRC – Commercial Food Waste)

This is a great example of not only diverting excess food from landfill, but also an example of local philanthropy, providing value and serving community members in need.

2. Habitat ReStore - Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, play a key role in promoting low-waste living and the “Reuse” from the 3R’s. By selling donated new and gently used building materials, furniture, appliances, and home improvement items, the ReStore helps reduce waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Shopping at the ReStore supports a circular economy, giving products a second life instead of contributing to unnecessary consumption. It’s an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to buying new, making sustainable choices more accessible to Prince Albertans, Reginians, and Saskatonians. Additionally, every purchase helps fund Habitat for Humanity projects, supporting affordable housing while also encouraging reuse and waste reduction. (Habitat Restore)

3. Mitny Refillery - Moose Jaw
Tucked away in the charming city of Moose Jaw, Mitny Refillery is a hidden gem for anyone looking to embrace a low-waste lifestyle. More than just a store, it’s a hub for sustainability, offering practical and accessible ways to reduce single-use plastics and unnecessary packaging.

At Mitny Refillery, customers can bring their own containers or use provided eco-friendly options to stock up on everyday essentials like household cleaners, personal care products, and pantry staples. By refilling rather than repurchasing packaged goods, shoppers significantly cut down on waste while still enjoying high-quality, sustainable products. (Mitny Refillery)

4. Thrive Juice Co. - Saskatoon & Regina
With locations in both Regina and Saskatoon, Thrive Juice Co. is known for its tasty, colourful, cold-pressed juices. Founded by Danica Slattery and Maile Crowe in 2013, Thrive is not only a local favourite when it comes to healthy snacks, but also a leader in low-waste operations.

Thrive produces small juice batches to limit waste and to be able to use locally sourced fresh produce, saying that “during the growing season, [they] use a local farmer to supply most of our fresh produce.” They also pass their spent pulp back to farmers for composting or animal feed. Additionally, the company‘s glass bottles can be returned to the store for reuse, creating a circular system. Better yet, Saskatoon customers get $0.50 off their next juice purchase for every bottle they return. (Thrive Juice Co)

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By supporting local businesses that are committed to lowering waste, you’re not just making a smarter, greener choice for yourself—you’re also helping to build a more sustainable Saskatchewan for future generations. While Low-Waste Living is about reducing overall consumption first, it is important to be aware of what businesses are doing behind the scenes so when we do need to make purchases, we are informed, and conscious consumers.

References:
Chatelaine. (n.d.). Six apps that make shopping Canadian easier.
CleanHub. (n.d.). Conscious consumerism: Definition, examples & how to practice it. CleanHub Blog.
Habitat Restore. Habitat for Humanity Saskatchewan.
Mitny Refillery. (n.d.). Mitny Refillery.
Thrive Juice Co. (n.d.). FAQ.
650 CKOM. (2021, November 15). Saskatoon grocery store owner takes recycling to new level.