Zero waste in Leicestershire: A practical guide to refill shops
Refill shopping is one of the most accessible ways to reduce packaging in everyday life. Instead of buying a new container each time, you bring a clean, reusable one and fill it with the amount of a product you need. It can help cut down on single-use packaging.
Zero waste does not mean producing no waste at all. That can be difficult in modern life, and some packaging is needed to protect products or keep them safe. A more realistic aim is to avoid unnecessary waste where convenient, reuse what you already own and make changes that fit your budget and routine.
Choose unscented items for pregnancy/nursing or near babies/pets (and xylitol-free dental care if you live with animal friends). If buying plants, read up on pet-friendly gardens (and how to stop birds flying into windows).
What can you buy at a refill shop?
The range differs from shop to shop, but refill stores commonly stock some combination of:
- Dried foods such as rice, pasta, oats, lentils, beans, nuts and seeds
- Herbs, spices, tea, coffee and snacks
- Household cleaning liquids and laundry products
- Toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and hand wash
- Reusable bags, bottles, jars and other low-waste essentials
Some shops focus on food, while others offer household or personal-care. Check the shop’s product range before travelling, particularly if you are looking for a specific item or need to avoid an ingredient.
Refill shops in Leicestershire
- No Frills Refills (Ibstock)
- Refill Revolution (Market Harborough)
How refill shopping works
The process is usually simple, although each shop may have its own system.
- Bring a suitable container. Clean, dry jars, bottles, tubs and bags may be accepted. Ask staff if you are unsure whether a container is appropriate.
- Have it weighed. The shop records the empty container’s weight, often called the tare weight. This means you pay for the product rather than the container.
- Fill it with the amount you want. Use the shop’s scoops, taps or dispensers, following any instructions provided.
- Record or label the product. Shops may ask you to note the product name or use a label so it can be identified at checkout and later at home.
- Pay for the contents. Prices are usually based on weight or volume, with the container’s weight excluded.
If you are new to refills, ask staff to show you the process. You do not need to arrive with a cupboard full of matching jars: start with one or two clean containers you already have.
Beyond refills: other low-waste habits
Refill shopping is part of a broader approach to using resources thoughtfully. Other practical steps include carrying a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, choosing durable products, repairing items where possible, planning meals to reduce food waste and donating or rehoming things you no longer need.
Nature areas to explore in Leicestershire
Leicestershire has many places where people can experience nature. Access, facilities and seasonal restrictions vary, so check the relevant land manager’s guidance before visiting.
- Charnwood Forest is a distinctive landscape of rocky outcrops, woodland, heathland, farmland and villages. Its varied habitats support wildlife and provide opportunities for walking and nature watching.
- Bradgate Park is a historic landscape with woodland, grassland, rocky areas and open parkland. It is a popular place to walk and enjoy nature.
- Watermead Country Park, near Leicester, includes lakes, grassland and wetland habitats. It offers opportunities for walking and wildlife watching.
If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees.
Leicestershire: birthplace of the English language
Old English was not a single uniform language. It consisted of several major dialect groups, including Northumbrian, Mercian, West Saxon, and Kentish. Leicestershire was located within the broad area associated with the Mercian dialect.
The language of Mercia was particularly significant because the Midlands eventually became an important centre of English cultural and literary activity. Words, grammatical forms, and pronunciations associated with Midland speech contributed to later varieties of English.
Some areas of Leicestershire sound French like Ashby-de-La-Zouch. But actually this is an old English name, not from over the pond!
Leicestershire is also a county of other ‘firsts’. It was birthplace to the vegan movement (Donald Watson) and even the motor car (whether that’s good or bad is not clear).
It’s also where Sir David Attenborough grew up on campus at Leicester University. And also where rock band Showaddywaddy was formed!
