Jefferson Eco CIC sells a range of reusable items crafted from fabric that would have otherwise gone to landfill. All items – such as reusable baby wipes and kitchen towels and vegan wax wraps for keeping food fresh – are made by the Jefferson team and local, ethical and sustainable businesses.
But Jefferson Eco CIC is more than just an eco-shop. Although it started life as a craft initiative running from market stalls, it is now a community interest company operating from a bricks-and mortar shop at 46 London Road, St Albans. The team were inspired by feedback from their passionate customers to create an eco-hub and regular workshops to help people live more sustainably, change minds and tackle the climate crisis.
They’ve teamed up with The Greenhouse CIC, a community project designed to promote sustainability, protect biodiversity and reduce the carbon footprint in the St Albans district, which runs above the shop.
Jefferson Eco CIC is run by three passionate directors – creative force Sonya, savvy business manager Danni and talented artist-in-residence Fiona. When visiting the shop you might be greeted by one of their friendly stockists, such as Jill from Phase Out Plastics or Sarah from Edgy Threads.
In the shop, the workshop area hosts sessions focused on topics such as visible mending, sewing, crochet, weaving and other craft skills. Craft and chat events are a great way for like-minded people to meet while working on a craft project, check out upcoming workshops on the website.
You can also recycle hard-to-recycle items like blister packs, spectacles and printer ink cartridges, hire their rooms, source pre-loved craft items, and browse the eco and quilting library.
What do the team enjoy most about Harpenden Sustainability Market? They particularly like its loyal visitors and lively atmosphere. They say they always have a great day, chatting with like-minded people.
When it comes to other stallholders, the team rate Alec from The Weeping Chef for his delicious, filling vegan food served from a solar-powered horse box. His adaptable, waste-free approach has made him a firm favourite among the team.
Jefferson Eco CIC’s philosophy is simple: do what you can to tread lightly on the planet. They remind us that everyone is at different stages in their sustainability journey and what one person finds easy might be more challenging for someone else. If we treat others with love and kindness, then millions of small actions can lead to big change.
Follow Jefferson Eco CIC on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates on their events and offerings or pop into the shop at 46, London Road, St Albans, AL1 1NG.
Join us at the next Sustainability Market in Harpenden on Saturday 14th September to meet Jefferson Eco CIC, The Weeping Chef and many other local eco and food stalls promoting a sustainable lifestyle. Visit our website for the full schedule of dates.