With the intention to promote sustainable behavior among consumers and address the root causes of waste management, Dana Soltanova embarked on a remarkable journey by opening the zero-waste store "Helloeco" in Almaty. Together with her business partners, Dana aimed to minimize waste and promote sustainability by offering products without excessive packaging or single-use plastics. The concept of "Helloeco" revolves around the principles of the circular economy, focusing on reducing waste throughout the entire consumption cycle to create a more environmentally friendly and sustainable shopping experience. Helloeco also engages in the collection of various types of waste, which are subsequently sent for recycling purposes.
"We wanted to provide a space where people can make conscious choices and actively participate in reducing waste. By offering products without excessive packaging, we aim to inspire consumers to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle," Dana explains.
By leading with circular principles, Dana sets high standards for the goods sold in "Helloeco." Suppliers who cooperate with the store undergo a transformation in their production cycles, withdrawing unnecessary packaging and utilizing special containers. Furthermore, Dana carefully selects products that meet the environmental standards set by the European Union, Russia, and Kazakhstan. This ensures that the items offered in the zero-waste shop have undergone certification processes, minimizing the negative impact of certain ingredients on the environment. Dana's goal is to further reduce the adverse effects of these products on the planet and encourage sustainable consumption practices.
In addition to prioritizing waste reduction, "Helloeco" places a strong emphasis on collaborating with local producers. By sourcing products from nearby suppliers, the store minimizes the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation and fosters a sense of economic empowerment within the local community. This approach aligns with their commitment to sustainability and their desire to create positive social and economic outcomes at the grassroots level.
"We believe in the importance of supporting local businesses and reducing the carbon footprint associated with logistics. By collaborating with nearby producers, we not only minimize environmental impact but also contribute to the growth of local economies," Dana highlights.
Beyond their role as a retail store, Dana and her partners actively engage with the community by organizing and supporting various eco-events in Almaty. These events, which include exhibitions and garage sales, serve as platforms to raise awareness about environmentally friendly practices. Through these initiatives, individuals are encouraged to adopt sustainable behaviors and contribute to the preservation of the environment. Dana and her partners actively participate in these events, fostering a sense of community and inspiring others to embrace eco-conscious practices.
The success of "Helloeco" has not only demonstrated the profitability of sustainable ventures but has also inspired followers from various cities in Kazakhstan to replicate Dana's model and establish similar stores. By leading the way, Dana has not only shown that sustainable businesses can be financially viable but has also empowered others to join the movement and contribute to the growth of eco-friendly practices in their own communities.
Looking to the future, Dana envisions expanding her business by offering ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) consulting services to assist other companies in incorporating environmental values into their operations. Additionally, due to the growing demand for online orders, she is considering opening a new store in Astana. This expansion aims to cater to the increased interest in sustainable products and further extend the reach of her business, both in terms of consultancy services and physical store locations.
In conclusion, Dana Soltanova's zero-waste store, "Helloeco," stands as a shining example of sustainable business practices and a catalyst for positive change. Through her commitment to waste reduction, promotion of sustainable behavior, and collaboration with local producers, Dana has created a shopping experience that not only minimizes environmental impact but also supports the local economy. Her dedication to high standards ensures that customers can make environmentally conscious choices while reducing harm to the planet.