What is The Tare Shop?
The Tare Shop is a package-free coffee shop and bulk store that offers a refreshing alternative to over-packaged food, household items, and personal supplies. Located in downtown Dartmouth, this innovative store has earned its reputation as the first package-free store in Halifax. Founded by Kate Pepler in October 2018, The Tare Shop arose from a burning need and desire to do better—reducing waste, reusing what is already available and working toward a future with less single-use plastic. With a philosophy that celebrates package-free living, the store allows customers to grab coffee, groceries, beauty supplies, and more, all without the unnecessary packaging. It’s a place that not only provides sustainable goods but also encourages a more mindful lifestyle.
Main Benefit of Package-Free Living
The Tare Shop provides several clear benefits that make sustainable living exciting and accessible. The following bullet points capture key facts and figures that define this innovative project:
- Founded in October 2018 by Kate Pepler
- Located in downtown Dartmouth, serving Halifax and surrounding areas
- Offers a comprehensive range of package-free options including coffee, groceries, and beauty supplies
- Hosts engaging community events such as workshops and lectures
- Certified as a B Corp with a continual aim to improve its environmental score
Community and Sustainability in Action
The Tare Shop is more than just a place to shop—it’s a hub for community engagement and sustainability in action. The store hosts various community events, including workshops and lectures that educate participants on environmental issues, sustainable practices, and creative ways to reduce waste. These events bring people together, creating an environment that fosters dialogue, learning, and collective problem-solving. It is a spot where sustainable living is not just a trend, but a way of life—a place where individuals eager to reduce personal waste can feel empowered to make a real difference. The energy in the store is contagious, sparking conversations and connections that extend well beyond its doors.
Innovative Eco-Friendly Practices
At the heart of The Tare Shop’s approach is a commitment to innovating eco-friendly practices. The store embraces the notion of reducing barriers to sustainable living by providing long-term alternatives to single-use plastic items. Customers are invited to explore options that encourage repurposing and reusing items, helping to minimize waste before it even begins. This initiative, combined with the store’s commitment as a certified B Corp, demonstrates a forward-thinking strategy that recognizes the urgency of transitioning towards a cleaner, greener future. It feels almost like a revelation—an oasis where practical solutions meet everyday life, fostering a subtle but important shift in buying habits.
A Vision Rooted in Passion and Sustainability
The genesis of The Tare Shop is deeply rooted in the personal journey of its founder, Kate Pepler. After graduating from Dalhousie University with a BA in Sustainability and Environmental Science along with a minor in Marine Biology, Kate experienced what can be best described as an overwhelming flood of doom and gloom concerning the health of the planet. It was in this state that the “Eureka!” moment occurred—a sudden realization that combining passions for the oceans, reducing plastic pollution, environmental education, and community building could become a powerful force for change. The Tare Shop embodies this vision. Kate’s background and drive are reflected in every facet of the store, making it not just a business, but a living project dedicated to fostering a sustainable community.
Project Impact and Related SDGs
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
A Place to Enjoy, Learn, and Engage
A visit to The Tare Shop is an experience that combines the pleasure of a good cup of coffee with the satisfaction of contributing to a healthier planet. The store is situated at 21 Portland St, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2Y 1H1, and is accessible by phone at +1 902-266-2828. During the week, the store welcomes patrons from 9am to 7pm; on Saturdays, from 9am to 5pm; and on Sundays the hours shift slightly to 11am to 5pm. It’s a welcoming space where moments of quiet reflection over a cup of freshly brewed coffee meet the vibrant energy that comes from community-driven sustainability efforts. The vibe is casual, engaging, and dynamic—like a friendly neighborhood hangout where every visit feels like a step toward a better, cleaner world… a small yet impactful change in every day.
