This week, the following environmental news articles sparked our interest. From a significant national plastic policy move to new findings on climate risks, here is what we’re reading on recycling, pollution, and climate issues:

National Recycling Coalition Policy on Chemical Recycling – Waste Advantage, May 21, 2025
In a strong and clearly worded statement, the National Recycling Coalition has officially come out against so-called “chemical recycling,” calling it a false solution that fails to reduce plastic production and pollution. Chemical recycling, also known as pyrolysis, “advanced recycling,” or “plastics to fuel”, is a process that takes waste plastics, heats them and adds toxic chemicals, and then melts them down into a substance that can be used as a fuel stock. While a number of chemical recycling plants have been built at great expense across the United States, none has ever reported success in terms of scaled or efficient outputs. Additionally, the plastics are never in fact recycled or even downcycled into future plastic products. In this newly articulated policy stance, the National Recycling Coalition emphasized that most chemical recycling technologies are energy-intensive, often result in toxic emissions, and divert attention from real waste reduction efforts.

‘All the cocoa trees will be destroyed’ – The Ecologist, May 12, 2025
The Ivory Coast’s cocoa farmers warn that, as environmental stressors like drought, disease, and soil degradation reduce farmland productivity, the impacts threaten not just the country’s cocoa supply but also entire ecosystems. Inequitable economic relations and agricultural policies also inhibit producers’ ability to invest in and care for their land properly. This leads to more intensive and damaging farming practices that are swiftly becoming unsustainable. 

Plastic pollution may be accelerating global warming by disrupting Earth’s carbon cycles – Environmental Health News, May 16, 2025
A new study released by the Plastics & Climate Project concludes that microplastics are interfering with carbon sequestration in oceans and soils, potentially exacerbating climate change. The research shows how plastic pollution isn’t just a waste issue, but also a climate threat that could undermine key planetary systems that regulate temperature.

Finally, we would like to recognize Rep. Gerry Connolly, who passed away this week after a months-long battle with cancer. Connolly represented northern Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, which encompasses most of Fairfax County. In his long political career, he was a staunch supporter of the environment and the residents of Virginia on the national level, as well as being a good human being. 

Jen Cole, Executive Director of Clean Fairfax, reflects, “ In my capacity as new Director of Clean Fairfax in 2009, I had the opportunity to meet the Congressman, who once he found out I was from Rhode Island, talked all about the great restaurants and bakeries in Providence and Boston and of course The Red Sox. I was so homesick at the time, having made no friends here, and talking to him about home was a balm on my heart that I have carried with me for the last 16 years.

I would see him at events over the years and he always remembered that I was a Sox fan. He was such a good man, and a dedicated public servant and of course, a Red Sox fan. I will miss him and his big laugh. Goodspeed, Congressman; you were loved.”

We’re bringing back the Clean Fairfax Environmental News Roundup, sharing a few stories each week that we find notable. 

To kick it off, here are several recent stories that caught our attention:

Farmers market season takes root across Fairfax County, starting this week – FFX Now, Apr. 15, 2025
We’re thrilled that the Fairfax County Park Authority’s ten farmers markets are going plastic bag-free this season! Head out to your nearest farmers market (a full directory can be found on our website) and remember your reusable bags.

Maryland Gov. Moore signs packaging EPR into law – Packaging Dive, May 13, 2025
Maryland joins just five other states by passing a new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law that holds companies responsible for the disposal, recycling, and end-of-life management of their products. This new Maryland law covers packaging, paper, and beverage containers. Once fully in force, it will require that stores and manufacturers deal with transportation, recycling, composting, and contamination management.

How REI reached a key zero-waste milestone before Target and Walmart – Trellis, May 8, 2025
The popular outdoor clothing and equipment coop has achieved 90% diversion of its waste from landfills and incinerators in 2024, instead recycling or composting the material. It’s the first major retailer to reach this target, and the organization continues to strive for zero waste (meaning 100% of waste is diverted). They are also working on reducing single-use packaging by requiring suppliers to find alternatives or eliminate it at the source. Great job, REI!

Starch-based bioplastic may be as toxic as petroleum-based plastic, study finds – The Guardian, May 13, 2025
This article discusses a new peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry which found that biodegradable starch-based plastics, known as bioplastics, can cause serious health problems for wildlife and humans as they break down in the environment. While bioplastics have been heralded by the fossil fuel industry as safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, this study points to the fact that the source of a plastic’s base polymer may not make a difference when it comes to the product’s toxicity.

These “Old Ladies” Dive Into Massachusetts Ponds, Come Up Bearing Pounds of Garbage – Nice News, Mar 1, 2025
A growing group of women over the age of 64 who call themselves Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage, or OLAUG, has been attacking the problem of sunken trash in ponds across Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Read all about their efforts and achievements here!

Our Holiday Shopping Tips & Gift Guide!

The holiday season is a time for giving, festive celebration, and connection with those we love. And this year, let’s make it a season of sustainability too! By shopping thoughtfully, we can spread joy while caring for our planet. Here are some easy ways you can make your holiday gifting more meaningful and eco-friendly.

Shop Locally and Sustainably

Supporting local businesses not only strengthens our communities but also reduces the environmental impact of shipping. Look for unique, locally made items or eco-conscious brands that prioritize sustainable materials and ethical practices. Your gift can tell a story while supporting artisans and small businesses. 🎄

Rethink Wrapping

Wrapping paper may look festive, but much of it isn’t recyclable. Instead, get creative with sustainable alternatives! Use recyclable wrapping paper, old newspapers, brown kraft paper, or natural materials like cloth wraps or twine. You can also reuse gift bags, boxes, and bows from years past to further cut down on waste. 🛍️ 

Give with Purpose

The best gifts are the ones that will be used and loved. Before buying, consider whether the item fits the recipient’s needs, style, or interests. Practical gifts, experiences, or consumables like homemade treats are thoughtful ways to show you care—without the risk of your gift ending up in a landfill. 🌍

To help you find inspiration, we’ve assembled a few holiday gift guides full of locally sourced, sustainable, and practical gift ideas for everyone—from the home chef, to the coffee or tea-lover, and the R&R enthusiast. We also encourage you to check out this recent presentation we gave on Sustainable Holidays earlier this season.

Happy Holidays!!

Welcome back to our Sustainability Spotlight series, where we celebrate businesses, organizations, and individuals making a significant impact on sustainability. This month, we’re excited to highlight Fillagreen, a local gem in the City of Manassas, VA, that is redefining the way we shop by promoting a low to no-waste, sustainable lifestyle.

The Heart of Fillagreen: Sustainable Goods & Refills

Fillagreen is not just a store; it’s a movement! Offering a carefully curated selection of eco-friendly products and a refill station, the shop empowers the local community in Manassas – and now Fredericksburg, at their newly opened second location – to reduce waste and make mindful, sustainable choices in their daily lives.

What makes Fillagreen stand out?

1. Zero-Waste Shopping: Fillagreen is dedicated to helping customers reduce their reliance on single-use plastic by offering a variety of bulk goods. Whether it’s skin and beauty products, toiletries, or household cleaning products, the store encourages shoppers to bring their own containers to refill, thus cutting down on packaging waste. But don’t worry, if you forget your container at home, Fillagreen offers containers for sale as well as a free container library (just remember to bring your container next time!). Similar to other low waste stores in our region, this model helps foster sustainable habits by bringing high-quality products direct to consumers, making it extremely easy to reduce, reuse, and refill all their products.
   
2. Eco-Friendly Products: Fillagreen’s product selection features a range of sustainable goods, from reusable bags and water bottles to bamboo toothbrushes and organic cleaning supplies. They also feature self-care and beauty products, such as shower steamers, tinted lip balm, perfumes, lotions, aftershaves, and more! Yet even with such a variety of products, every item is thoughtfully chosen with an emphasis on minimizing environmental impact and promoting ethical production.
   
3. Personalized Local Touch: Fillagreen is community-focused with a presence at two local farmers markets (Haymarket and Historic Manassas), and they also offer doorstep refill exchange and delivery for anyone within a 10 mile radius of their store. Customers can also subscribe to an “Earthwise Surprise Subscription Box,” which delivers an exciting selection of eco-friendly goods each season throughout the year. The staff are eager to help customers try out the refill system, give product recommendations, and provide personalized curbside service – this level of attention can only be found at a local, small business!
4. Educational Focus: Beyond being a retail store, Fillagreen serves as a community hub for sustainability education. The team regularly hosts events and shares information that empowers local residents to take action on environmental issues. Fillagreen staff will speak at community groups, events, and schools about sustainability and eco-friendly lifestyle choices to build the zero waste movement.

How Fillagreen Is Shaping a Sustainable Future

Fillagreen is playing a crucial role in the Manassas and Fredericksburg communities by demonstrating that sustainability doesn’t have to be hard or complicated. By offering an accessible and welcoming space to shop sustainably, they are inspiring customers to take simple but meaningful actions toward reducing waste. In doing so, Fillagreen is not only helping individuals live more sustainably but is also contributing to the larger global movement toward a circular economy.

A Commitment to the Community

At Fillagreen, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s woven into the fabric of their business. The store is committed to fostering a sense of community and collaboration, and they are deeply invested in creating a space that encourages environmental stewardship. Whether you’re a longtime advocate for sustainable living or just starting your green journey, Fillagreen offers the resources and support you need to make a difference.

Why It Matters

As the demand for eco-conscious products continues to grow, businesses like Fillagreen are showing that sustainability can be both practical and stylish. By reducing packaging waste, supporting ethical production, and offering eco-friendly alternatives, Fillagreen is helping pave the way for a greener future.

Fillagreen’s commitment to sustainability proves that even small businesses can have a large impact! And by supporting companies that prioritize the planet, we all play a role in building a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

Visit Fillagreen:
Fillagreen is located in the heart of downtown Manassas, VA (with a second location recently opened in historic Fredericksburg, VA). If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and explore the store’s incredible range of sustainable products. You can also check out their website and social media pages for updates on new products, events, and sustainability tips. Let’s keep the momentum going! We’ll continue to spotlight businesses, organizations, and individuals who are leading the way in sustainability – and we hope that Fillagreen’s example inspires you to take your own steps toward a more sustainable future.

Stop Talking Trash: How one man, one dog, and a truck are transforming waste into recoverable resources

Resource Recovery Project founder, Ed Ehlers, never talks trash. Instead, he collects recoverable resources (a.k.a. recyclable materials) from his project members in Clifton, VA, and makes sure that they get to a facility where they can be used again. 

Several years ago, Ehlers was walking his dogs and would habitually pick up trash wherever he found it. He noticed that many littered items could have been recycled, but instead they were treated as waste. He looked more closely at the recycling system and found it to be broken in many ways. It’s complicated, messy, and hard for the average person to understand. Traditional commingled curbside recycling is not very successful, through the lens of resource recovery. Many municipal recycling centers have contamination rates of 25-40%, meaning that at least one out of every four items we throw in our blue bins, while technically recyclable, ends up as trash because it is dirty, contaminated, damaged, or can’t easily be separated. And once our recycling has been sorted, not every stream even has a market for the facility to sell it to. So where do those things go? You guessed it: in the trash pile. Incredibly, according to the Recycling Partnership, only one in ten recyclable items flowing through the municipal recycling system will actually be recycled.

Enter: the Resource Recovery Project.

Disrupting the Status Quo

Ehlers set out to change this process. In April 2021, with a grant from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, he recruited a few dozen of his neighbors in Clifton, VA as pilot project participants. He distributed “Big Green Bags” for people to put their recyclables in and drove around once a week to collect them in his pickup truck. His conditions: he would take anything clean and dry that was “not yucky”– and no medical, hazardous, or food waste. Once back at his sorting center, he would manually separate everything into bins, bags, and boxes. Over time, he researched take-back, recovery, and recycling programs for 31 different streams – from traditional things like cardboard and aluminum, to trickier items such as beauty care packaging and holiday lights. “Solutions are as variable as the resources in the world. There is no magic bullet,” he says.

Since the project’s inception in 2021, Ehlers (and one part-time helper) have processed 76,500 pounds of resources by hand, with an astounding 96% recovery rate. Where does it all go? He personally delivers or sends items to the proper destination, including municipal recycling facilities, donation centers, and business-based collection centers. One day you may see Ed delivering a truckload full of bicycles to the bicycle donation drop-off at Fairfax County’s I-66 Transfer Station. Another day he may drop off a box full of health and beauty aid containers at Nordstrom Rack’s Beauty Cycle collection point. Wherever he goes, Ed carefully weighs, tallies, and tracks everything he handles. Good data helps him understand his business and its impacts, which he proudly shares several times a year on the Resource Recovery Project website and social media accounts. The metrics show that this project is possible, that it is efficient, and that it is making a difference.

Greater Goals

Ed’s aim is to demonstrate that single stream curbside recycling, if done well, can be effective at diverting unwanted items for reuse, repurposing, recovery, or recycling. It may not be glamorous work, but it is certainly innovative and important as our society faces ever-increasing pressure from waste and pollution. The Resource Recovery Project offers proof that one person, a dog, and a pickup truck are all that’s necessary to begin finding a new and better way of doing things. Let’s all #StopTalkingTrash!

And bonus for us at Clean Fairfax: Ed Ehlers not only serves as our Board Secretary, but he also features as a member of our Speakers Bureau. Want to learn more about recovering resources, improving recycling success, or how to deal with hard-to-recycle items? Head over to our Speakers Bureau page and request a speaking appearance by Ed at your group’s next gathering.

#StopTalkingTrash!

Demystifying nature and restoring native landscapes with Pollinative

Founded in 2024, Pollinative Sustainable Land Management is a mission-driven native landscaping and educational services company which is leading the charge in sustainable land management in the DMV. 

We sat down this spring with Founder and CEO Rob Nowell to talk about his new venture, what inspired it, his vision for changing the sustainability landscape (pun intended!) in our region, and more!

Sustainable Land Management

Pollinative promotes balance with nature when designing and maintaining a yard. There are of course human needs and aesthetic qualities that can be inhibitors to giving back part of your yard to nature. Pollinative strives to educate and demystify nature and lower the barriers to going native, so that you don’t have to compromise and can sleep better at night knowing you’re helping boost your local environment.

Committed to sustainability in all aspects of their business, Pollinative uses electric and battery powered equipment as much as possible. The company also avoids the use of chemicals, which can be challenging when it comes to invasive removals, but is critical for protecting native plant, animal, and insect health. Additionally, they encourage clients to retain yard debris as much as possible, especially if they have available space in the yard. – Did you know? A dead tree actually supports more species than a living tree! – Yard waste eventually decomposes into fertilizer and soil that would otherwise have to be purchased and transported to the homeowner’s yard. 

Pollinative Origins

Likewise, having seen his family’s trash reduction from composting food scraps and brown cardboard, Rob wondered if he could help others take the leap. On a snowy February day, Rob offered to his local Facebook group a local composting dropoff site. The response was overwhelming, and he knew he was onto something. 

With several years of landscaping experience, Rob has observed first-hand the high costs of yard maintenance and the lack of resources and services specifically devoted to native landscaping. He saw an opportunity to enter the space and become that resource for others who have faced similar challenges on their own property. 

On Earth Day 2024, Pollinative officially opened for business offering sustainable landscaping services including: seasonal maintenance, invasive removals, and native garden design and installations. With each new project, Rob continues to share his knowledge and contagious passion for sustainability wider and farther. Explore all that Pollinative has to offer on their website! https://gopollinative.com/

#GoNative!

Editor’s Note: Clean Fairfax occasionally works with people who need to complete community service hours ahead of a court date. This summer, we were approached by a person who had gotten pulled over and ticketed for littering a cigarette butt. They spent 25 hours cleaning up trash in and around their neighborhood, and this experience inspired them to share this article with other members of the community.

Ever since an assembly at school when I was in fourth grade, I have been environmentally conscious. I have been an avid recycler since I got a car at sixteen. Back then, you had to separate the recycling and drive it somewhere to drop each type of material into bins. For the last seven years, I have also picked up trash in my neighborhood every week after trash day because the animals inevitably get into it and spew trash around the neighborhood. I had quit smoking for thirteen years but recently started again. Although I was very conscious of doing my part for the environment, cigarette butts were a different story. I figured I couldn’t put an ashtray in my car because it would smell really bad, so I would throw them out the window, subconsciously thinking they were so small, what impact could they make?

I did just that one day and was pulled over by a police officer for littering. He gave me a ticket and I thought I could just mail in a fine and that would be that. When I saw a court date on the ticket I asked if I could just mail in the payment. During that conversation I realized this is a criminal misdemeanor and I would have to appear before a judge. Boy was I surprised! I have a business working with kids and I cannot have a misdemeanor on my record, so this threatened my entire livelihood. My friends and family could not believe that I of all people got a littering charge, but that’s where my thoughtlessness around smoking got me.

I called a lawyer as soon as I got home and paid him $700.00, knowing that I could also end up owing a fine of up to $2,500. He told me to voluntarily do community service before my court date and there was a judge in Fairfax County who would put everyone in jail for 30 days for littering. Cue more shock! I had a month to do community service and all the while I was terrified that I could possibly go to jail, lose my income, let down my team who would no longer have their jobs, and I could have a record and a huge fine to pay. I knew I deserved it so I braced for the worst.

I spent 25 hours picking up trash for Clean Fairfax in my area during the intense summer heat. Driving through my community, it looks pretty clean. Once I got up close, it was filthy. The amount of trash on the streets and sidewalks was just awful. I was quite shocked at the amount of single use trash. Whether it was a McDonald’s cup, a Chik-Fil-A bag with food containers inside, napkins, straw wrappers (sooooo many straw wrappers,) small alcohol bottles–on and on the list went. Almost everything I picked up was a single use item from food and drink establishments like Starbucks or Panera, which means the individual impact of throwing one or two things out onto the street, or an overflowing trash can that no one empties for weeks, makes the biggest impact. The closer I physically got to a store that served food or drinks, the more trash there was to pick up. It was so obvious what was causing all the trash accumulation. It was rarely big items I picked up, almost always small things, clearly caused by individuals throwing one thing here or one thing there, or not bothering to pick something up that didn’t quite make it into the trash can.

The second most common items I picked up were smoking related, including cigarette butts, lighters, empty cigarette packs, or items like the plastic ends of black and milds. There was very little smoking related trash in residential areas, but still a great amount of single use items. I could not believe the amount of butts on the streets and sidewalks. The bus stops were most definitely the worst for trash and for butts, and they even have a trash can at each stop. I learned that cigarette butts wreak havoc on the environment because they slowly leak a chemical cocktail of highly toxic and carcinogenic substances into soils, waterways, lakes, and oceans.

Once I was pulled over, I knew I was never going to throw a butt out the window again, but I didn’t realize until that day how simple the solution was. I was not going to get an ashtray due to the smell. BUT, the easiest and simplest solution was to just get a water bottle, half filled, and put each butt in there. How simple!!!! Of course. If I had bothered to put any thought into it at all, I could have figured that out. Instead, for one month, I worried every day about my career and income, having a criminal record, possibly paying $3,200 total, and maybe even going to jail. How ludicrous when all I needed was a water bottle. I also had to shorten my summer vacation because I had to be back in town for court. How I cursed myself for being so stupid.

I knew I was guilty, I was not going to deny it, so I did expect the worst going before the judge. I have never been so nervous in my life. By the grace of God, I stood before the judge and it was dismissed. I deserved worse, but I was incredibly thankful that my team and I were still going to have jobs and I paid $700 in total instead of $3,200.

Although I never would have littered any other item, I hope someone reads this and understands the impact that cigarette butts and all the other trash we generate have on our water and soil. I also hope to make people understand that, for example, throwing just one McDonald’s cup out the window or onto the street, is causing a pile up of trash and making our community disgusting. We all have to live here, it’s all ours, and we should each do our part to keep it clean. 

How I wish we as a society could somehow stop making so many single use items and for people to do their part and go out every now and then and pick up trash. I can see now that it would make a monumental impact on all of us and our communities. I am now aware that littering is against the law in the state of Virginia and expensive, so if nothing else motivates citizens, let it be that. Awareness is important.

Signed,

Lesson Learned!

Re-Thinking the 3Rs for a Sustainable Future

In our quest for a more sustainable planet, we have long hailed the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) as the solution to handle our waste. But after 50+ years of recycling, and no less plastic waste on our hands, it’s time to rethink this paradigm.

There are many more Rs that belong in our vernacular and help us reframe our thinking away from single-use and waste towards recovery and resource. The new paradigm includes: Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Repurpose, Rot, then Recycle Right. Each step offers practical ways to minimize waste, make a positive impact on our environment, and help maintain the circular flow of our resources. Let’s dive into each of these Rs and explore how they can be integrated into our daily lives!

Rethink

Rethinking our habits and choices is about being conscious of the environmental impact of our actions. It involves questioning our consumption patterns and seeking sustainable alternatives. For instance, opting for public transport over driving or choosing renewable energy sources can make a significant difference.

When applied to the consumer market, rethinking can look like reassessing your relationship with stuff: perhaps conducting a household plastic audit, considering what items you have before buying a new thing, or taking your consumer dollars to brands that are dedicated to sustainable sourcing, production practices, and values. Other easy examples are remembering to keep your reusable bags in your car so that you have them every time you go to the store, or keeping an extra refillable water bottle in your bag so you can get a drink wherever you are.

Refuse

The first step towards reducing waste is to refuse unnecessary items. Say no to single-use plastics, excessive packaging, and disposable products. By refusing these items, you reduce the demand for their production, which in turn lessens the strain on our planet’s resources.

Reduce

Reducing our consumption means being mindful of the resources we use. It can be as simple as buying fewer clothes, cutting down on food waste, or choosing products with minimal packaging. By consuming less, we conserve resources and reduce waste.

Reuse

Instead of discarding items after a single use, find ways to reuse them. This can be done through creative repurposing or simply using durable, multi-use products. For example, glass jars can be used for storage, and cloth bags can replace plastic ones.

Repair

Before throwing away broken items, consider repairing them. Many things can be fixed with a little effort, saving money and reducing waste. From mending clothes to fixing electronics, repairing is a sustainable choice that extends the life of products.

Repurpose

Repurposing involves finding new uses for old items. It encourages creativity and reduces waste. For instance, an old ladder can become a bookshelf, or wine corks can be turned into coasters. The internet is full of great DIY projects and inspiration for repurposed items!

Rot

Composting organic waste is a natural way to return nutrients to the soil. Kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other biodegradable materials can be composted, reducing landfill waste and enriching the soil for gardening. In fact, food waste makes up about 24% of landfill waste and accounts for 58% of methane emissions from landfills; composting (whether at-home, drop-off, or through a collection service) can help dramatically reduce this emission!

Recycle

Recycling is perhaps the most well-known element of the 3 Rs adage. Fundamentally, it involves converting waste materials into new products. The industry and societal emphasis on recycling over the past 50 years has been partially beneficial, in that a large proportion of the population is aware of recycling and has adopted it as a daily habit. Wherever true recycling is possible, it is beneficial in that it recovers resources so that they can be used again, rather than making products out of raw materials that are used once and then go to a landfill. However, recycling has also been used by marketers as a conscience soother: don’t worry, you can buy all that you want and feel guilt-free as long as you recycle the container or wrapping! While recycling is an important tool in the tool-belt, it is not the silver bullet solution to our plastic pollution and waste problems that we have been led to believe it is.

The truth is, recycling also takes a lot of energy and resources. And many materials, especially plastics, are never recycled at all. It’s important to be aware of the state of recycling in your community; follow local guidelines to ensure materials are properly processed, always clean and sort recyclables to avoid contamination, and advocate for better and true recycling (not down-cycling or advanced recycling) practices. And remember—recycling is the last step in the circular system of resources!

If you’d like more information on the myths of recycling and tools to advocate for your community, check out our partners at LitterFreeVA.org.

Living Thoughtfully With Less Plastic at Trace

Located in bustling downtown Vienna, Trace – The Zero Waste Store invites you in to investigate their bulk food and refill store. The shop has a sleek boutique-meets-natural-food-co-op ambience that both calms and stimulates. Without the clutter of packaging and plastic, products are displayed artfully yet efficiently. Whether you are a first-time browser or a regular refiller of bottles and jars, friendly staff is there to assist you when desired. Remember to BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag) and containers! 

Trace founder, Mala Persaud, is passionate about being part of the plastic pollution solution. After a trip to Belize in 2016 where she saw incredible quantities of plastic bottles, bags, wrappers, and caps strewn across the beautiful landscape, Mala was inspired not only to make a change in her own life, but also to help others. Her store is the embodiment of that intention: to provide healthy, clean products free of plastic ingredients and packaging. Mala is a stellar example of talking the talk AND walking the walk.

About the Store

At Trace, you will find everyday items for your kitchen, bath, and laundry room, as well as fun and cheeky gifts for special people in your life. The bulk food section offers nuts, seeds, grains, and other dry goods with a handy weighing and labeling station. For bath and beauty products, you have many choices for refill items, plus beautiful glass pump bottles for purchase if you forget your own container – as well as a selection of donated containers available for free! The store also carries a number of household cleaning products such as dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, and surface cleaners. There are refillable personal care products from razors to dental floss.

Many of the items for sale at Trace may seem like novelties to folks who are at the beginning of their journey to reduce plastic waste. Once you try them out, however, you may find that you highly prefer the low-waste lifestyle, and realize that the upfront cost of purchasing a sturdy reusable item more than makes up for the cost and hassle of constantly buying things that you use once and throw away. Additionally, there are numerous products that make excellent gifts: organic cotton tea towels, vegetable-based candles, sustainably sourced chocolates, and artisan olive oils & vinegars to name just a few!

First-time visitors need not feel nervous trying to navigate the store. Friendly staff members are there to walk you through the refill process. They will demonstrate how to use the scale to get a tare weight of your container, fill up, and reweigh to record the product amount. The staff can also explain any unfamiliar products. At checkout, you will be refreshed by a smooth and paperless transaction!

Greater Goals

As part of the mission of Trace, Mala Persaud is dedicated to getting the word out about the importance of reducing plastic waste. She regularly speaks and writes about her work to share her message with the community. Whether she is tabling at community expos, acting as an “Ask Me Anything” recycling expert, or selling sustainable products, she is spreading the word on how people can make changes in their lives that will make a difference. Her efforts were recognized recently with a Fairfax County Environmental Excellence Award in the Organization and Business Category! Congratulations, Mala.

Clean Fairfax is excited to welcome Trace back as a sustainable vendor at our Earth Daze event on April 28, 2024 at Aslin Beer Company in Herndon, VA. Bring your container and reusable bag for all of your refillables!

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!