top of page
Search

Zero Waste Food Shopping: A Sustainable Choice for a Better Future


Ethiopia is a country rich in culture and community-driven markets. However, like many places, it faces growing waste challenges. Plastic pollution and food waste harm the environment, economy, and future generations. The good news? We have the power to change this! Zero-waste shopping is a simple yet impactful way to reduce waste, save money, and support local businesses.


The Problem:


Plastic Waste Overload Plastic use in Ethiopia has skyrocketed from 43,000 tons in 2007 to 224,000 tons in 2022. Addis Ababa alone generates over 80,000 tons of plastic waste yearly, clogging rivers, polluting streets, and harming wildlife. Most plastic bags and packaging are used only once and take centuries to decompose.

Food Waste and Its Hidden Costs While millions of Ethiopians struggle with food insecurity, about 10.3 million tons of food are wasted annually. Poor storage, over-purchasing, and lack of planning lead to massive losses. This waste not only costs money but also harms the environment by releasing methane as food decomposes.

The Convenience Trap Many supermarkets and vendors rely heavily on plastic packaging, making it harder for consumers to shop sustainably. The shift toward packaged goods moves us away from traditional, eco-friendly shopping habits like using reusable containers and buying fresh, unpackaged produce.


The Solution:


1. Plan Your Meals & Make a Shopping List Planning meals and making a shopping list prevents impulse buys and ensures you only get what you need. This reduces food waste, saves money, and makes grocery shopping more efficient.

2. Bring Your Own Containers to the Suk Instead of accepting plastic bags, bring reusable containers when shopping for staples like rice, lentils, and spices. Bulk shopping in your own containers reduces waste and keeps food fresh. Many traditional suks allow this, helping you buy just the right amount.

3. Use Reusable Bags in Supermarkets Ditch plastic bags for reusable alternatives like fabric, zembil, cotton, or crates when buying fresh produce, bread, and dry goods. Cotton bags and zembil are breathable, keep food fresher, and eliminate harmful plastic toxins. Many supermarkets now welcome customers bringing their own bags.

4. Support Local Sunday Markets Shopping at traditional markets means fresher, unpackaged food and a direct connection with farmers. By supporting local vendors, you get better quality produce at fair prices while reducing plastic reliance. Plus, you buy only what you need, minimizing waste.

5. Store Food Properly to Prevent Waste Use airtight containers, glass jars, and breathable produce bags to extend the life of food at home. Proper storage prevents spoilage and keeps grains safe from pests. Simple changes in storage habits can cut down waste significantly.



Small Actions, Big Impact

Adopting a zero waste shopping mindset doesn’t require drastic changes overnight. Start with small steps—bring a reusable bag, use a container, plan meals. Over time, these actions create a cleaner, healthier environment.

By making mindful shopping choices, we protect the environment and honor our traditions of market-based, community-driven commerce. Zero-waste shopping is more than an environmental movement—it’s a celebration of Ethiopia’s rich culture and sustainable future. So, next time you shop, choose wisely—every small action counts!

Watch here! zero-waste food shopping https://youtu.be/JG9Y7yZmO7o


Sources:


Capital Ethiopia (2024): Plastic waste crisis: Addis generates over 80,000 tons annually


Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/FAO (2011): Global Food Losses and Food Waste. https://www.fao.org/4/mb060e/mb060e.pdf. Accessed on 08/04/2025.

Kassahun, S.K., Assefa, B., Henzler, K. et al. (2025): Firsthand report on solid waste management practice in the major town of Addis Ababa-Adama economic corridor, Ethiopia. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2405844025000799. Accessed on 18/04/2025.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page