Plastic-free doorstep refill service launches in North Yorkshire

Sarah Hartley, founder of The Northern Eco.

A doorstep delivery service offering plastic-free refills of everyday household products has launched in parts of North Yorkshire.

The Northern Eco Refillables Shop offers products including hand wash, surface cleaner, dog shampoo and bubble bath, with plans to expand the range in the future.

The service follows on from Sew So Eco, the refill delivery business established by Sally Williams in 2023.

Sally decided to move on from the business earlier this summer, with Sarah Hartley, founder of environmental newsletter The Northern Eco, now launching the new service.

Customers place orders through an online shop before products are delivered to their door on Fridays.

The delivery area is divided into zones based on distance from the service’s Leyburn headquarters.

First-time customers pay a £5 deposit for reusable glass bottles, which is refunded if the bottles are returned. Empty containers can be collected when the next order is delivered.

Sarah said: “Reducing plastic waste was what first motivated Sally to set up her refill business, and I was a customer myself from early on.

“When she decided to move on, it felt like a natural fit to keep the service running locally, given how closely it matches what we’re already trying to do with our environmental newsletter – encouraging local, practical responses to bigger environmental challenges.

“We’re starting with a small range of essentials and building from there based on what people want. It’s a new venture for us so we’re learning as we go.”

The products available through the service are biodegradable, vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free.

In a farewell message, Sally said: “We’re thrilled to see another delivery service offering refills and helping us move away from single-use plastic.

“We wish Sarah all the very best as she takes on the battle against plastic – and we hope you’ll give her your support!”

The service currently covers parts of North Yorkshire, with details of the delivery zones and information on how to order available through The Northern Eco website.