Woolworths and Coles have long been dominating our grocery shopping habits. But have you ever stopped to consider the environmental cost of supporting these retail giants?
From excessive plastic packaging to food waste and dodgy sustainability claims, these supermarkets are failing the planet. If you’re serious about reducing waste and making eco-conscious choices, it’s time to rethink where you shop. Here’s why you should boycott Woolworths and Coles and what you can do instead.
Excessive Plastic Packaging
Walk down any aisle in Woolworths or Coles, and you’ll be bombarded with plastic. From pre-packaged fruits and vegetables to individually wrapped bakery items, unnecessary plastic is everywhere. Despite claims of reducing plastic waste, both supermarkets continue to contribute to Australia’s mounting waste crisis.
Alternative
Support bulk food stores like The Source Bulk Foods or local zero-waste shops where you can bring your own containers and buy only what you need.
Food Waste on a Massive Scale
Supermarkets operate on a model that prioritises aesthetics over necessity, leading to enormous amounts of food waste. Perfectly edible produce is rejected for being the wrong shape, and tons of unsold food ends up in landfill instead of being donated or composted.
Alternative
Shop at farmers’ markets or community food co-ops where produce is valued for nutrition rather than appearance. Consider joining a food rescue initiative like OzHarvest or SecondBite.
Unsustainable Supply Chains
Coles and Woolworths have been repeatedly called out for sourcing products from suppliers that engage in unethical and unsustainable farming practices. Palm oil, deforestation, and unfair treatment of farmers are just some of the issues linked to their supply chains.
Alternative
Buy directly from local farmers, independent grocers, or community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs that promote ethical and sustainable farming.
Greenwashing and Misleading Sustainability Claims
Both supermarkets have made grand promises about reducing waste and improving sustainability, yet their actual practices often tell a different story. For example, Coles’ ‘Bring Your Own Container’ initiative had so many restrictions that it was practically useless, and Woolworths still profits from selling ‘reusable’ plastic bags.
Alternative
Opt for independent retailers and small businesses that genuinely prioritise sustainability, such as zero-waste stores and organic grocers.
Poor Treatment of Local Farmers and Suppliers
Many Aussie farmers and suppliers struggle under the pressure of Coles and Woolworths’ pricing strategies. The duopoly drives prices down to unsustainable levels, forcing many local businesses to close or cut corners just to survive.
Alternative
Support small businesses, farmgate shops, and ethical supermarkets like Aussie Farmers Direct, which ensures fair pay for producers.
Lack of True Zero-Waste Options
While both supermarkets have introduced some ‘eco-friendly’ options, they still fall short of providing a true zero-waste shopping experience. Bulk buy sections are limited, fresh produce often comes pre-wrapped, and plastic packaging remains dominant.
Alternative
Visit refill stores for household essentials, make your own cleaning products, or shop at cooperatives that embrace sustainable, package-free shopping.
What Can You Do?
Boycotting Woolworths and Coles doesn’t mean you’ll be left scrambling for groceries. Here are some practical, eco-friendly alternatives:
- Shop at local farmers’ markets for fresh, package-free produce.
- Visit bulk food stores like The Source Bulk Foods or local refill shops for dry goods.
- Support independent grocers and small supermarkets that prioritise ethical sourcing.
- Grow your own food at home or join a community garden.
- Use food rescue apps or community groups to prevent food waste.
Coles and Woolworths may be convenient, but their environmental impact is anything but. By choosing to shop elsewhere, you’re not just reducing waste, you’re supporting ethical businesses, protecting local farmers, and making a real difference in the fight against unsustainable consumerism.
It’s time to ditch the duopoly and embrace a more sustainable way of shopping. Will you take the pledge to shop better?
