What's the Scoop?

York’s Student Co-operative

Scoop was founded over a decade ago, and has since become a staple for sustainable shopping on campus. It’s ideal for those looking to purchase ethically sourced, local goods at wholesale prices. It is also a fantastic way to manage your budget and reduce food waste, as most products are sold unpackaged, so you can take exactly as much as you need.

“The shop is open to everyone – staff, students and members of the public,” says Darla, the society’s chair. “If you become a member then you get 10% off our produce too,” which can lead to some pretty amazing savings.

“The majority of the products we stock are vegan, which are typically more sustainable than animal products. They’re also very accessible – almost everyone can eat vegan food,” Darla tells us, as she discusses the impact of food consumption on society and the planet. Reducing the distance food travels from farm to plate is a key way to help: “We source many of our products locally, like our unique veg boxes from the Organic Pantry in Tadcaster.” 

As well as food, you can pick up handmade goods, spices, soaps and much more from the shop.

Sustainability is for everyone

The Scoop team firmly believes that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can live more sustainably. “Zero-waste shops can be quite expensive, which is a shame,” says Darla. “We sell all of our stuff at wholesale prices, and people are like, ‘Wow, it’s so cheap!’”

A current focus for the team is expanding access to ethical shopping. “We are hoping to put in a path that goes up to the shop window, to make it easier for wheelchair users to reach us,” says Darla.

One vision

Scoop is supported by the University and the Students’ Union. It’s just one part of York’s drive for sustainability, with an ambitious goal to become carbon-neutral by 2030. Staff, students and the community are helping to embed sustainable thinking at all levels, from solar panels installed on campus, to a reusable cup scheme which has saved over 1 million single-use cups from landfill.

“In terms of universities in the UK,” says Darla, “York’s on the right track.”