Amid climate worries, demand for eco-friendly products has risen dramatically within the past five years, with studies by WWF reporting a 71% increase in internet searches for sustainable goods. Google also revealed the five most searched for topics around the climate all related to living more sustainably since the start of 2022, proving consumers are taking a continued interest.
As interest has increased, so has accessibility, with many UK cities now home to a range of eco-friendly shops, proving just how easy it is to make simple and conscious switches. New data from sustainable retailer, Ecovibe, has revealed the cities across the UK with the most sustainable shopping options.
“Whilst the high street has seen a decline in recent years, it’s great to see that eco-friendly shops are not only remaining, but thriving in our cities.”
Jos Battle, CEO of Ecovibe
With a database of eco shops across the nation, the retailer found that the capital is home to the most eco-friendly shops, from those with product refill stations to sustainable homewares and vegan food spots. Northern cities, Manchester and Liverpool, are also home to a great range of sustainable stores, along with Leeds and Bradford.
- London – 75 shops
- Manchester – 26 shops
- Liverpool – 12 shops
- Brighton and Hove – 9 shops
- Leeds – 9 shops
- Nottingham – 9 shops
- Portsmouth – 8 shops
- St Albans – 8 shops
- Bristol – 7 shops
- Bradford – 6 shops
The research shows that almost 90% of UK cities have at least one eco-store, with many home to product refill stations, sustainable homewares, along with vegan food and drink. The rising popularity of eco-friendly products comes as concern grows around the future of the planet, and knowledge increases around the harm caused by our shopping habits.
Whilst there are many eco stores across the UK, eco alternatives to everyday essentials, such as cleaning, and clothing, often aren’t as easy to find in bricks and mortar stores. If you’re looking to make eco conscious switches, then many online shops offer plastic free and non-toxic products. Eco cleaning subscription services which make it even easier to adopt a planet friendly approach are also becoming increasingly popular.
In recent years fashion has also undergone an eco-refresh, with clothing and accessory rental services booming in a bid to combat throw away and fast fashion.
“Swapping out traditional products for eco alternatives is becoming so much easier. So much so that It’s looking likely that eco-friendly products will become the norm within the next decade. With many options available on the high-street, online and even now in supermarkets, there’s no real reason to continue buying products that can harm the planet.”
Jos Battle, CEO of Ecovibe