Plastic-Free July: Firstport-Funded Zero-Waste Champions
Plastic-Free July has become a global movement encouraging individuals and businesses to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics. This article highlights the inspiring work of several Scottish social enterprises that are leading the charge towards a more sustainable future.
The Highland Weigh, Nairn
The Highland Weigh (THW), a Nairn-based zero-waste café and shop, was founded in March 2022 by Amanda Macarthur with the aim of eliminating plastic waste. Supported by Firstport’s Catalyst Fund, THW is leading the charge towards a sustainable future.
Offering a unique blend of ethical products, vegetarian café and zero-waste retail, THW sells organic coffee alongside over 100 plastic-free products categorised into accessories, books, food, health and beauty, homewares, household, outdoor, and seasonal. By prioritising local sourcing, minimising food waste, and harnessing green technologies, the café is deeply connected to the community and its values.
With a focus on transparency and sustainability, THW recently publishes that it has already diverted over 30,000 pieces of plastic from landfills. THW is a remarkable organisation running entirely on the circular economy concept, from procurement to running a solar powered café.
Join the zero waste movement! Follow The Highland Weigh on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected and support their sustainable mission.
Weigh Ahead CIC, Dunblane
Weigh Ahead CIC is a social enterprise founded in August 2019 by Rosemary Hunter with a mission to foster sustainable living with its multifaceted approach, combining environmental sustainability with social responsibility. This is achieved through offering refill options, sourcing local products, and providing employment and volunteering opportunities for those in need.
The organisation’s journey began with support from Firstport’s Start It Award, which enabled the establishment of its zero-waste, plastic-free retail shop on Dunblane High Street in November 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation demonstrated expansion which was partially facilitated by Firstport’s Build It in 2020. This crucial assistance supported administrative costs and enabled Weigh Ahead to adapt its operations effectively to the new circumstances.
Weigh Ahead ensures that every aspect of the business, from sourcing to sales, promotes sustainability and community well-being.
Be part of the change by following Weigh Ahead CIC on Facebook and Instagram for zero-waste inspiration.
Kintyre Weigh, Campbeltown
Kintyre Weigh C.I.C, established in May 2022 by Sharyn Lock and Peter Rivers, is Campbeltown’s pioneer zero-waste shop. This organisation offers sustainable food and household items while educating and motivating residents to minimise environmental impact.
Moreover, Campbeltown’s designation as a Climate Change Action Town amplifies Kintyre Weigh’s impact, positioning the shop as a vital information hub for circular economy practices. This means that when you shop at Kintyre Weigh, you’re not just buying sustainable products, you’re also gaining valuable knowledge about how to live a more eco-friendly life.
Firstport has strategically supported the organisation’s growth. Initial Start It funding provided the foundation for launch, while subsequent Build It support facilitated the expansion of services and the customer base. This financial backing has been crucial in the company’s journey towards long-term sustainability.
Today, Kintyre Weigh plays a significant role in their local community. By offering practical solutions and guidance, the shop helps residents and organisations understand environmental challenges and take concrete actions to address them.
If you’re in Campbeltown, check out Kintyre Weigh and follow them on Facebook.
Ullapool Unpacked CIC, Highland
Ullapool Unpacked CIC, a pioneering zero-waste shop on wheels, was incorporated on April 26, 2019, in the Scottish Highlands by Eve Strange, who was just 20 years old. This unique enterprise is Scotland’s first mobile zero-waste shop, with a simple yet powerful mission: to make waste reduction accessible to all, especially those without transport.
The organisation began with support from the Start It fund in 2020, which provided the initial capital to establish the mobile zero-waste shop in Ullapool. This innovative approach allowed Ullapool Unpacked to bring sustainable shopping directly to customers, overcoming transportation barriers in the rural Highlands region. The business has since expanded significantly, securing a Build It grant to establish a physical store in Ullapool town centre.
Along with retail, the company reinvests its profits into environmental initiatives, including workshops on sustainable living, community clean-ups, and youth work experience programs.
As of 2024, Ullapool Unpacked CIC operates through a pop-up shop in the local Village Hall and is about to launch an online store featuring over 266 products.
Find out more about Ullapool Unpacked on their website and by following them on Facebook.
Conclusion
These stories exemplify the power of entrepreneurship and community collaboration in driving positive change. With Firstport’s business and financial support, these businesses have demonstrated that it is possible to create thriving enterprises by embracing circular economy principles, supporting local communities, and developing innovative solutions.