For Plastic Free July this month, we have a chat to one of our long time customers and low waste superstar, Erin English. Read along as Erin shares her many low waste tips, why she loves being part of the Lyttleton community and her knowledge on the best local makers/artists and favourite place to jog in the Mountains.

How long have you been shopping at Lyttleton?

For roughly 5 years. I have made some of my dearest friends from shopping there and attending workshops and exhibitions.

What do you love most about Lyttleton?

I love the people who work there most. I love their commitment to the co op in general and how they all genuinely care about the community they’re a part of. I remember after the last federal election I went in to buy groceries and I just started crying. I was so angry and upset at the result and instead of strange looks, I was offered a cup of tea and given a hug. That’s the best example I can give of why I love Lyttleton.

Favourite low waste hack from your childhood?

I remember my mum cooking in larger batches, making sure to use up whatever was at hand and always having something in the freezer. Mum and dad both worked full time so it was always helpful to have something easy and fuss free at the ready.

Favourite low waste recipe to cook?

I’m usually at the mercy of whatever is left in the crisper before my fruit and veg box is delivered, but curried veg wrapped in pastry is a go-to, it ticks lots of boxes and can be packed into lunch boxes the following day as well. I do a tray bake of ‘nearly dead’ veg at least twice a week too, just to add to meals in the coming days.

The most under-rated low waste hack?

Stewing fruit! Great for pie fillings, paired with yoghurt or ice cream, mixed with pikelet mix or on top of porridge!

I also think plastic free lunch boxes can make a huge contribution to a family’s low waste efforts. It has become normal to stuff lunchboxes with individually wrapped, often unhealthy, portions of this or that and it baffles me that we expect our little ones to function throughout their school days fuelled by that stuff.

My most used cookbook is…

Anything by Hetty Mc Kinnon

I love listening to or reading…

I thoroughly enjoy the PIP podcast and magazines and I’m constantly inspired by Hannah Moloney - her energy and inclusiveness is infectious.

Favourite low waste inspirational maker/artist from the Blue Mountains?

To The Trees for her beautiful and wholesome images and Kevina-Jo Smith for her activism. To be honest, up here it’s the frequent interactions with people who have sewn the dress they’re wearing, or the neighbour tending an amazing garden or wood turner at a local market that I find constantly inspiring. The frequency with which I get to interact with compassionate, creative folk is such a pleasure and something I never take for granted.

Favourite low waste workshop is…

The pickling and preserving workshop at Lyttleton has been a game changer!

My favourite low waste DIY craft hack is…

Making collages from magazines is still such a calming and pleasurable activity for me, even as an adult. I also save all the coloured papers from the toilet roll I buy and come up with some ‘creative’ wrapping situations come Christmas time!

What is your favourite thing to grow in the garden?

Leafy greens. I’m a total novice when it comes to gardening but I can do leafy greens. I appreciate how forgiving so many varieties are and the rate at which they grow.

Your best tip for reuse in the garden..

You cannot go past composting! The very idea that you can complete a whole life cycle in your backyard blows my mind.

Easiest low waste cleaning solution anyone can do

I’m not one to give out cleaning advice to ANYONE, but I regularly use very hot water and lemon juice to clean floors and surfaces and bi carb soda always comes in handy to make into a paste for more stubborn spots.

Latest low waste cleaning hack you’ve discovered

I’m completely converted to the soap cage for my dishwashing! It’s a natty little invention that means there’s no plastic necessary to do my dishes.

Best low waste eats in the Blue Mountains is...

Any café that allows you to use your own containers (for take away options) and keep cups is a winner in my eyes. It’s imperative that we all support local, independent businesses that are guided by low impact philosophies.

My favourite place to get in touch with nature is…

My regular jogging path goes down Rutland Road in Medlow Bath and I’m always so grateful for the untouched bushland that surrounds the track. If I’m feeling a little lost I seek out any lookout that shows off the expansiveness of this beautiful mountain range we live on. I’m constantly humbled by the beauty and vastness of the escarpments and valleys.

To get a true feel of Blue Mountains life head to…

The co-op for some take away treats and fresh fruit and wander out to a park or lookout with close friends. To enjoy this part of the world is to be connected with nature and your community.

LIVES OF LYTTLETON PROFILE #4: Erin English