“HOW do we get rid of plastic?”
“How can we stop using plastic when most of the products we use come with plastic packaging?”
These were some of the questions in Jillian Lacerna’s mind. She was bothered after seeing piles of trash during one of her diving sessions in one of the beautiful beaches in Cebu.
Because of her dismay, seeing garbage killing marine life and destroying the beauty of the sea, Jillian did some research on how to resolve this issue. She decided to start with herself by living a plastic-free life—using stainless steel straws, package-less shampoo bars and soap, a bamboo toothbrush, bringing her own reusable shopping bags, food container and tumbler, and creating her own deodorant and body scrub.
Determined to minimize the usage of plastic, Jillian decided to sell basic eco-friendly products that she is using through her online shop @litterless.ph and during a bazaar at Hostel 7. Unexpectedly, her products sold-out during the bazaar, including her own mixture of deodorant and body scrubs, which are safe to use as these are chemical-free.
“I never thought that there are a lot of people trying to adapt to this kind of lifestyle. I hope this is not only a fad just because being ‘eco-friendly’ is the trend nowadays.” said Jillian, with a hopeful tone.
After the bazaar, people kept messaging Jillian, asking her about the products. Some even went to wherever she was just to purchase the items.
“Most of my customers tell me that not only can they help in saving Mother Earth by buying my products, but the package-less concept helps them save money because these are cheaper compared to the ones that come with packaging.” shared Jillian, with a smile on her face.
Due to public demand, Jillian planned to display her products in a physical store. She then met Ann Talaba, owner of Earth & Fire Dine + Chill Cafe, and worked on a collaboration. Since both have the same vision of eliminating plastic, Litterless.PH is now stationed inside the Bohemian-themed cafe on Rosal St., Cebu City. The cafe does not also use plastic containers for its food and beverages, and even discourages to-go orders—not unless the customers bring their own drink container with them.
Because Litterless.PH now has a home, it introduces its refill concept where customers are encouraged to bring their own containers and reusable bags to purchase its products. It also encourages the customers to practice self-service; one should tare, refill, weigh and label his desired products.
Along with its eco-friendly dry goods are package-free organic foods like granola, cacao nibs, rolled oats, quinoa and chia seeds, its newest addition.
Jillian and Ann believes that leading an eco-friendly life starts with discipline, compassion and sincerity, and it should start with one’s self.
Earth + Fire Dine + Chill Cafe is open Sunday to Tuesday from 12 noon to 2 p.m.