Embracing Low-Waste Living: Discover Virginia Mercantile in Clifton, VA

Nestled amid the rolling hills and lush wooden landscapes in the town of Clifton, Virginia, lies a hidden gem for eco-conscious and eco-curious shoppers – Virginia Mercantile. This sustainable haven is more than just a store; it’s a commitment to mindful living, environmental stewardship, and community investment in support of small & local makers and business, as well as the planet.

We were intrigued by Virginia Mercantile’s sustainability mission, their engaging posts on social media, and many of the products showcased online, so we decided to take a field trip to Clifton to check it out. We were moved by the friendly and inspiring conversations we had with employees and the owner, Robin Moser, about the store’s commitment to eliminating plastic packaging, lifting up local makers and their products, as well as fostering a community of learning and practice around sustainable habits (from bringing your own bag, to sorting your recycling, to refilling beauty, home, and cleaning products at their refill station). We are excited to announce Virginia Mercantile as the very first feature in our new Sustainable Spotlight series!

About the Store

At Virginia Mercantile, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of products that prioritize sustainability, durability, and ethical sourcing. From reusable household items and zero-waste essentials to locally crafted goods and organic pantry staples, every item on the shelves reflects a dedication to reducing waste and supporting eco-friendly practices. There’s even a Refill Station–with bars, cleaners, soaps, lotions, shampoos and more boasting scents that rival salons and clean ingredients you can trust! The shop truly embodies their vision that sustainability is for everyone; it doesn’t require radical behavior changes, just small adjustments; and it doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or function for an eco-friendly alternative.

Greater Goals

The low-waste movement is gaining traction across the country, especially as concern for the climate grows, and sobering truths about the state of recycling and plastic, microplastic, and water pollution emerge. Many brands are facing pressure from consumers to answer to their environmental impact, and consequently, the market has seen a wave of new, greener alternatives to everyday products. But what sets Virginia Mercantile apart is its unwavering commitment to fostering a low-waste lifestyle beyond just the products it sells. The store serves as a hub for educational information, community events, and initiatives aimed at empowering individuals to make environmentally responsible choices in their everyday lives. It was clear to us early on that Virginia Mercantile seeks to meet customers where they are on their sustainability journey–something that resonated with us and our mission of encouraging environmental stewardship and urban sustainability in an increasingly complex information landscape and a fast-paced and growing Fairfax County. 

So whether you are a seasoned eco-warrior or just beginning your journey towards sustainable living, Virginia Mercantile welcomes you with open arms. We implore you to step inside, explore the aisles filled with eco-friendly treasures and Virginia-made goods, and join us and the folks at Virginia Mercantile in our shared mission to create a greener, cleaner Fairfax County & planet for generations to come!