Go Green, Go Local
By Kenzy Fahmy
With our Sustainability Weekend coming up, we’ve had conscious consumption on our minds and wanted to highlight a few great spots and brands in Cairo that share our goals and values.
It’s becoming more and more difficult to consume sustainably, to keep our carbon footprint to a minimum. The consequences of our lifestyle now often extend to far off places, the names of which we may never even have heard. What we do and how we do it matters, this is no longer a fact we can ignore, no matter how hard some of us might try. Where we decide to spend our money matters, the business we choose to support can have a huge effect on our world.
But it’s also becoming increasingly difficult to figure out what really is sustainable; many of us struggle with the vast amount of information we’re bombarded with on an almost daily basis. What matters though, is that we try. And thankfully, there are others who share our concern for the planet, people and organizations who are trying to protect the world around us, our heritage, both cultural and natural.
From food to fine art, we’re trying to reach a place where the things we buy follow certain principles: fair, local and environmentally friendly. These 8 businesses have helped us to do just that, and hopefully they can help you too!
Alkemia:
This lovely boutique has a wonderfully curated collection of home accessories, rustic furniture, lighting and jewelry. With every piece sourced from local craftspeople and artisans around Egypt, ALKEMIA not only gives producers much needed exposure and a space to sell their work, they bring us quality pieces that are beautifully designed, fairly sourced and sustainably produced. They have a great little gallery at CSA so make sure to pass by next time you’re here!
Fair Trade:
There’s little question as to the impact that Fair Trade has had on so many communities around Egypt. The organization has been supporting the country’s traditional crafts and the people behind them for years. By shopping here, not only are you making sure your money goes to those who need and deserve it most, you’re also helping to preserve the ongoing production of local arts and crafts using traditional techniques and materials.
Markaz:
Similar to Fair Trade, Markaz has become a mainstay of sustainable shopping in Cairo. Their products are all hand-made by craftspeople around Egypt, blending traditional techniques and patterns with contemporary style and aesthetic. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for some decorative pieces for your home, and their incredible variety makes it perfect for gift shopping.
Power Plant:
Founded on a belief that plant-based diets are a great route to good health, Power Plant is all about creating delicious vegan food that merges recipes and dishes from around the world with local, organic ingredients that are packed with immune-boosting vitamins and nourishing ingredients. We’re lucky to have her here at CSA; make sure to stop by for a wholesome, sustainable and budget-friendly lunch option!
El Market:
Another great option for grocery shopping; although you might not find everything you need here, El Market has a wonderful selection sourced from local producers who live according to the same pillars of sustainability that we all strive to live by. You can find some great dried herbs and spices from Sinai to Siwa, a wide range of gluten-free, dairy-free options, as well as a pretty extensive selection of natural beauty products.
Darb 1718:
Darb is a contemporary art space and cultural hub with a mission to support the city’s musicians, artists and craftspeople. With regular workshops, concerts and exhibitions taking place, you can nurture your own self-growth while supporting the community around you.
be.do:
Based out of St. Catherine, be.do operates under the umbrella of Sinaweya, a social enterprise with a mission to preserve the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Working closely with the local community, using traditional Bedouin knowledge and practices, they sustainably grow and harvest indigenous plants that have been used for centuries to heal, nourish and bond. Be.do shop also sells products that sustain the local community and their traditional crafts like embroidered textiles. You can order their products online.
Bulga:
Created and run by two inspiring young women who decided to join forces and bring a shared passion to life. By working with women in isolated Egyptian towns like Shalateen, they have brought back the traditional leather Bulga shoe, but with a unique modern twist, all while supporting struggling communities and reviving a dying craft. You can find their products at Mim, another great local fashion brand that sells stylish comfort-wear, right here at CSA.