While corporations are the ones who need to change their practices to truly tackle plastic pollution, many Philadelphia residents are looking for ways to cut their consumption to help the process along, writes Nathaly Suquinagua for WHYY.

Several stores in the city make that possible.

For example, Ray’s Reusables in Northern Liberties offers soaps and cleaning supplies in reusable containers, among other reusable options.

“We help people see possibilities for how they can reduce waste in their life,” said owner Ray Daly.

Vellum Street, founded in 2015 by Melissa Lynn Torre, sources ingredients for its soaps and other products from around the Philadelphia region. It packages its products using reused and sanitized glass.

Good Buy Supply is focused on sustainability and mainly sells household essentials, such as soaps and laundry detergent.

“So anything that you would need or could need to make an easy transition to something more sustainable, we’re trying to stock,” said Emily Rodia, who co-owns the store with her husband Jason Rusnock.

Meanwhile, Shift Sustainable Goods, owned by moms Kimberley Bezak and Eleisha Eagle, is a full-service refill concept store.

Finally, Bennett Compost helps over 6,000 households and businesses by picking up their compostable waste every week.

Read more about the Philly stores helping cut down on plastic consumption in WHYY.

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