STORY: Zero waste store promotes sustainable practices in Namibia
SHOOTING TIME: Jan. 25, 2024
DATELINE: Jan. 26, 2024
LENGTH: 00:02:19
LOCATION: Windhoek
CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT/SOCIETY

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the zero waste store in Windhoek, Namibia
2. SOUNDBITE (English): BRIGITTE REISSNER, Founder of the zero waste store

STORYLINE:

A zero-waste store in Windhoek, Namibia's capital, is working to promote sustainable practices by transforming the shopping habits of many locals.

Established in 2019, the store operates under the principle of waste minimization by offering items for sale without any packaging to reduce waste dumped into the environment.

SOUNDBITE 1 (English): BRIGITTE REISSNER, Founder of the zero waste store
"We sell everything not packaged. I think that is the most important. Basically, how the store works, you can bring your own container. The container is weighed, the weight is written on the container, and then all the products have got codes on them. So with whatever you fill the container with, you put the code on. Then you take as little or as much as you need and this is unique to the store."

Over the years, the store has experienced significant growth, expanding its trade to include spices, flour, snacks, seeds, health products, cleaning products, cosmetics, and other items.

This approach also highlights promoting organic and locally sourced products, supplemented by online ordering to reduce its carbon footprint.

Meanwhile, the store also plays a vital role in the community by providing employment opportunities.

Looking ahead, the founder hopes that the store will significantly influence business models in Namibia.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Windhoek.
(XHTV)