Meet Planet Renu - Walnut Creek's Zero Waste Refill Store

When I heard about Planet Renu, my first thought was "Clare would have loved this place." She was passionate about reducing her carbon footprint and developing innovative yet simple solutions to get her there. And of course, sharing them with others so they could do the same. She was just one person, but she was committed to doing what she could to make the world a better place.

Clare's mom and I met Planet Renu's founder, Amy Golan, at her store and it was both fascinating and inspiring. We left with new products to try and a reignited spirit that small changes can make a big difference.

Planet Renu is a local female-owned business, focused on reducing our reliance on plastic. They are a zero waste store helping customers reach a more sustainable lifestyle by offering an array of eco-friendly products and the opportunity to refill reusable containers to reduce waste.

A huge way to reduce your single-use plastic consumption is to buy your cleaning and personal care products in reusable containers. At Planet Renu, you can bring any size container you wish to use, weigh it, fill it with your desired product, and weigh it again so you only pay for what you added. They have everything you could need to refill, from shampoo and conditioner to dish soap and stain remover. In addition to bulk containers used for refilling, they have an incredible assortment of other sustainable products like beeswax wraps to replace plastic wrap and an eco-friendly alternative to paper towels.

You can buy Planet Renu's products through their website or shop in-store and refill your items at their Walnut Creek location in the Mount Diablo Yoga Center. Make sure to use code RunForClare for a discount.

Keep reading to learn how Amy got started and her three easy tips to reduce your carbon footprint.

What inspired you to start Planet Renu?

Four years ago, I read an article about carbon footprints and started taking a look at my own. I always considered myself eco, mindful and progressive, but realized that I could do more- and that realization led to my thinking that if I could do more, than many other people do more, so I started Planet Renu to be able to share my favorite products that are green and sustainable.

What has been the biggest challenge you've faced while starting Planet Renu?

Besides Covid, which halted the trade show arm of my business, convincing people to change their behaviors and shop more mindfully has been and still is a challenge (for us all).

Why is it important for you to feature other female owned businesses in your store?

I believe it's challenging to start your own business, especially in California, and woman tend to have a harder time garnering support- so I like to support other like-minded businesses (especially woman-owned) as much as I can.

Are there any innovative eco-friendly products coming out soon that you are excited about?

YES, I am always on the hunt for new products that can replace traditional plastic or non-green options. This month I have rolled out some fun bathroom options- an eco-strip toilet bowl cleaner and (reusable) unpaper toilet paper. Next month I will start carrying all-natural CBD creams and tinctures (medical for pain, sleep, anxiety) from a local woman-owned medical professional.

What are your top three tips for someone looking to reduce their carbon footprint and make a more positive impact on the planet?

Top 3 tips: Be Aware, Mindful & Curious when shopping for new products. First important swaps, reusable shopping bags, reusable produce bags and reusable cutlery. After that, look for products that are reusable or come in compostable packaging.