Your Guide to Sustainable Businesses in Madison
Madison, WI — Sustainability is becoming a primary factor in U.S. consumers’ purchasing habits. According to consulting firm McKinsey & Co., 60% of consumers would pay more for a product with sustainable packaging and 78% of consumers value a sustainable lifestyle.
However, finding sustainable businesses to support isn’t as simple as it would seem. Many businesses use marketing tactics to convince consumers that they are making a more sustainable decision when they aren’t. Madison, Wisconsin, is lucky to call itself home to many sustainable businesses, here are a few:
1. Dane County Farmers’ Market
2 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703
The Dane County Farmer’s Market reopens on Saturday, April 13! The farmers’ market is the largest producer-only market in the United States. By supporting the local producers at the farmers’ market, you’re opting for more sustainable options than you will find at your local grocery store.
2. The Soap Opera
319 State St, Madison, WI 53703
The Soap Opera is a locally-owned business selling soap, skincare, and other bath products. The business uses 100% renewable energy and reusable packaging to reduce waste produced by the business.
3. Green Life Trading Co.
1334 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703
This sustainable home goods store is located on the east side of Madison’s isthmus. Green Life Trading Co. sells a variety of products, including refillable household and personal care items, as well as reusable alternatives to paper towels and laundry detergent. Consumers looking to reduce their waste should check out this store!
4. Ugly Apple Cafe
215 S Hamilton St Lower level, Madison, WI 53703
The Ugly Apple Cafe is a locally-owned and operated eatery serving breakfast foods made from local overstock produce. The cafe takes unwanted or “ugly” food from local farmers and repurposes them into delicious treats!
5. Short Stack Eatery
301 W Johnson St, Madison, WI 53703
Short Stack Eatery serves delicious breakfast classics such as pancakes, eggs, and more! Since their founding, they have focused on supporting local businesses and minimizing their environmental footprint. Their sustainability-focused team of employees works to achieve racial equity in Madison, improve access to transportation, minimize waste, and promote purchasing from sustainable suppliers.
6. Pasture and Plenty
2433 University Ave, Madison, WI 53726
Pasture and Plenty is a farm-to-table deli and meal kit provider that builds its brand on environmentalism. The Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change named the restaurant the 2022 Climate Champion for their use of composting, recycling, and local sourcing. They parter with over 50 Wisconsin farmers and producers for their diverse seasonal offerings.
These options are just some of the many sustainable options Madison has to offer! Midwest Today has previously named Madison one of the most sustainable cities in the region, so naturally sustainable options for consumers are abundant.
