INTERVIEW WITH THE JAR TREE LEEDS

I spoke to Ian Thursfield, The owner of the Jar tree, about why he started the business and what his motivations were about it. And also how he gets customers through the door. 

Me: Hi There my name’s Jess, I study Graphic Design at Leeds Arts University, and I’m doing a project on sustainable design. I’ve been looking into zero packaging  and I'm really fascinated by your business!

Ian: Thanks!

Me: Can I ask you a few questions about your motivations?

Ian: Yeah sure, what do you want to know?

Me: Well firstly, what made you start up the Jar Tree?

Ian: I got into the idea of zero packaging when i had kids a few years ago and i realised just how much waste, specifically plastic, i was using. Things like nappies, wipes, food- literally everything has unnecessary plastic. Plastic is so stupid! People started using plastic 40 years ago without much thought, it’s only now that we are realising that it doesn’t disappear. The plastic we made then hasn’t gone anywhere!

Me :I know! It's ridiculous when you think about it.

Ian: Yeah, so i decided to do something about it, and went zero waste! I had always wanted to start my own business and so when i got left some inheritance money I decided to set up a zero packaging shop!

Me: That's so great! So what motivates people to shop here?

Ian: So people are doing their bit for the environment, obviously, so you bring your own reusable container and fill up however much you want. Without buying a packet of something you are reducing your waste. Also shopping local, the food hasn't travelled miles to get here.

Me: Are there any motivations that aren't eco-oriented like maybe the price?

Ian: Yeah i suppose the price could be a factor, our costs are quite low because you don't have to pay for packaging, you can also buy exactly how much you want of something, so instead of having a cupboard full of spices, that you have only used once, you can buy a small amount and save the cost and the waste!

Me: It’s a great idea! Thanks for talking to me!

I also emailed some questions to Ecotopia in Leeds but they never responded to me...

I plan to use Ian's words in the essay so I must take in ethical considerations.

My participant doesn't fall under any vulnerable person categories. 
The project doesn't mislead Ian in any way. I told him that i may use his words in my project.