Zero waste shop bags start-up funding

Somerset sustainability entrepreneur Keith Hunt has secured a £12,000 start-up loan to support the opening of his zero-waste shop.

Our Precious Earth, in Holloway Street, Minehead, provides eco-friendly household goods and gifts. All products are ethically sourced and packaged in eco-friendly materials.

Hunt came up with the idea for a zero-waste shop during one of his regular beach cleans, when, after discovering a lot of waste plastic, he decided he wanted to help consumers change their shopping habits.

As well as running his zero-waste shop, he is a dedicated conservator and a Litter Heroes Ambassador for Keep Britain Tidy, through which he educates and encourages others to reduce litter and other waste.

Hunt said: “In the few days that the shop has been open, I’ve had excellent feedback from local people who were pleased to find a new and interesting shop that sends the message about plastic pollution. The funding from Start Up Loans has helped me fast-track the opening of the shop, and make it look as good as it does.”

SWIGs start-up loans officer Jo MacEachen said: “Keith has a lifelong passion for reducing the impact of plastic waste in our lives. We were delighted to support Keith’s application, and through his shop, he has a great platform to help educate his local community on the impact of plastics in the environment and how consumers can reduce their own plastic use.”