Ellwood Thompson's Local Market

Community and Environment

Green Practices at Ellwood's

Part of Ellwood Thompson's mission is to actively support and sustain our environmental resources. Stocking local, organic and sustainable products is eco-friendly. Below are examples of some of our other green initiatives.

Five Ways to Support Sustainable Agriculture

From buying organic to getting your hands in the dirt, here are five ways to support the economy and the environment via sustainable agriculture. Read more >>

No Factory Farming

Ellwood Thompson's does not support cruelty to animals in any form, nor will we support the environmental and health threats factory farming causes. Read more >>

ET's Phasing out Plastic Bags

no plastic bags Ellwood Thompson's 2008 resolutions include moving completely away from plastic grocery bags, starting in January. Paper bags will be phased out later in the year. Read more about this very important step for you and ET's.

Energy by Wind Power

Ellwood Thompson's uses American Wind for 100% of the energy needs at their Richmond, VA location. The purchase will promote the further development of renewable energy resources, decrease harmful pollutants and lessen our dependence on fossil fuels. Learn more about wind power.

And Throughout the Store

Containers currently used for cold prepared foods: NaturesPLAstic™ is made from a biologically based polymer called NatureWorks™. Naturally derived from corn or other plants, NatureWorks PLA uses up to 50% fewer fossil resources than conventional plastic and composts back to the carbon cycle keeping a balance in nature.

New signs featuring local farmers, bakers, tofu makers, etc.: These signs are made of a sustainable plywood that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Our new signs also feature earth-friendly, water-based inks and sealants. One sign, which was also made with a sustainable wood product and finished with low VOC stain, was fabricated with metal corner brackets. These brackets were reclaimed remnants and didn't end up in a landfill.

Wooden bins in produce department: Bins located inside and outside the store are made with sustainable wood.

Specialty lighting in the store: Our lighting is the most efficient available, metal halide; other lighting throughout is compact fluorescent bulbs.

Coming Soon to the Store

Bagasse bags and containers for produce and meat as well as soup and coffee containers. Bagasse is paper pulp made from sugarcane fiber, after the sugar production process. This product is biodegradable/compostable and sustainable as it keeps sugar production waste out of landfills.

Spudware is biodegradable cutlery made from 80% starch (potato or corn) and 20% soy or other vegetable oil and is able to withstand high temperatures.

Check this out

Want to Participate in a 5% Day?

Learn more about our 5% Day Program or contact Lesley Johnson.

Ellwood Thompson

Real. Honest. Food.