Together for our planet, together for our community, together for our members. We are better together.
We can all do our part to reduce our impact on the planet. Calgary Co-op takes steps to reduce waste and increase energy efficiency.
Would you like microplastics with that?
Microplastics are exactly what they sound like− teeny tiny, miniscule bits of plastic. And they’re everywhere. Including inside our bodies. Research has found these microplastics in every inch of the human body, from breast milk to bone marrow, and every organ in between. So how do they get there? We consume these plastics mainly through food and drink− tea included.
Traditional tea bags that are heat sealed contain micro and nano plastics, to create the ability to form the seal. This plastic breaks down in hot water, potentially releasing billions of microplastics into your soothing cuppa. The good news? Not all teas are created equal. Cal & Gary’s tea bags contain zero microplastics, so you can rest assured that all you’re ingesting is the soothing goodness you deserve.
Our biodegradable, plant-based pyramid- shaped tea bags are made from PLA (poly lactic acid) extracted from corn, sugar cane and cassava and are the optimal shape to hold perfect amount of tea. These bags leave nothing behind, except the exceptional flavour brewed in every cup.
Not only are our tea bags 100% plant based, but so is all the packaging− pouch, carton and even the ink on the box. Our tea bags are compostable too, so you can enjoy your next cup of tea in good health, and good conscience.
Building a better tomorrow
Calgary Co-op’s new Oakridge Food Store, which opened in March, is a win for the community—both today and for the future.
This brand-new build replaces the original 1976 store and offers all the same great amenities, plus a few new additions—all within a smaller footprint that reduces environmental impact.
Constructed with eco-friendly materials, the store incorporates sustainable practices throughout. Automated systems manage lighting and building operations to reduce energy consumption and waste. Water-saving fixtures and equipment support conservation efforts, while energy-efficient LED lighting, HVAC systems, and appliances help lower emissions and operational costs. Even your favourite frozen treats are kept cool using non-ozone-depleting, energy-efficient refrigeration units.
The new location also includes a dedicated Community Room, available free of charge to local organizations and non-profit groups—a welcoming space to gather, connect, and grow.
With sustainability at its core, the new Oakridge store isn’t just serving the community—it’s helping to build a healthier, happier future for all.
All six fragrances are made with Calgary’s recycled carbon dioxide (CO2) using a clean carbon capture program. Since launching this product one year ago, we’ve captured over 4 tonnes of carbon dioxide, and repurposed it into 2000 bars of soap! Removing 4 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere is equivalent to planting 200 trees! This unique product assortment demonstrates our dedication to the planet and offers our members a high-quality, clean ingredient, natural product that is both better for you and for the environment.
Plug in and power up at one of three our EV charging stations, located at our Crowfoot, Sage Hill and West Springs stores. We’re excited to provide this service and we’re just getting started. Watch for more EV charging stations to pop up at our other locations.
At Calgary Co-op our purpose is to enrich our member communities wellbeing through positive actions. Through our environmental, social and governance initiatives, our goal is to protect our environment, foster our shared passion to support those who most need it, and sustain our co-operative for the long term. Community is at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s helping address food insecurity, helping local groups or fundraising for important causes, Calgary Co-op leaves no one behind.
As part of our commitment to the communities we serve, we have created space in a number of our food stores that can be used free of charge by community groups, registered, licensed charities, non-profit groups and youth and adult sports teams.
Calgary Co-op’s Fresh Food Rescue program sends fresh foods to the Calgary Food Bank as part of their Fresh Tote Food Rescue, as well as to other community Food Banks. We’re able to redirect perfectly consumable foods to the food bank, rather than the compost bin, by planning ahead. All Calgary Co-op food stores donate fresh produce, meat and fish, dairy and eggs, bakery, deli and prepared meals, dry groceries and frozen items to the food banks for collection, and same-day distribution through emergency food hampers. The result is an effective program that is transforming lives in our community and helping to reduce waste. In 2022, we donated over one million pounds of fresh food.
Calgary Co-op is honoured to have received the ‘In Cahoots’ award, presented by Food Banks Alberta for our Fresh Food Rescue Program in partnership with the Calgary Food Bank!
Calgary Co-op’s charitable foundation supports our most vulnerable including: seniors, children, the homeless and families at risk. We also provide members an opportunity to provide a donation when they are shopping at our stores.
In 2023 the Calgary Co-op Community Foundation through Calgary Co-op members and Calgary Co-op provided the equivalent of over $3 million to support food security in our communities. The Calgary Co-op Community Foundation will continue to focus on supporting food security and vulnerable population into 2024. Your support makes a difference.