Green Newton

I have long had an interest in waste reduction—trash, recycling, composting—but especially a reduction in plastics and unnecessary packaging. Whole Foods reduced their number of bulk items after COVID, and “refill” stores in the Boston area were just a little too far away for quick trips. Imagine my delight when Newton got its own refill store three years ago. I have been a frequent customer of Fulfilled Goods since its opening.

Fulfilled Goods allows you to bring your own clean jars and containers to be filled with the products they sell in the store. I regularly buy spices, nuts, grains, beans and legumes, dried fruit, olive oil, maple syrup, fresh ground almond and peanut butter. I also get liquid hand soap, laundry detergent, and dishwashing soap. It’s a great feeling to walk out of the store knowing that nothing will be thrown in the trash or even in the recycling—truly zero waste! The store has enabled me to significantly reduce the amount of pre-packaged food items that I purchase at the grocery store.

I was then excited to hear they are opening a second location inside Derby Flowers (another great, small, local business with an interest in sustainability) in Newton Center. Shara Ertel, owner of Fulfilled Goods, told me that she has always wanted to be in Newton Center, a busier area where she anticipates more traffic and awareness of her store. The opportunity to open inside Derby Flowers was one that she couldn’t pass up. The grand opening is this Saturday, September 20 from 11am-6pm. The store-within-a-store will have refillable household items and pre-filled jars of selected food items. Over time, they hope to enable a drop-off/pick-up service and online ordering. Shara said both Fulfilled Goods and Derby Farms will have discounts available this Saturday – Fulfilled Goods will offer a 20% discount at the Newton Center location for any refill.

I plan to make a trip to the new store, and I hope you will too. Going zero waste is a truly feel-good lifestyle. Give it a try.

Green Newton members get a 10% discount any time at Fulfilled Goods, so please consider becoming a member.