Growing up surrounded by hippies, I was taught to respect our Mother Earth, to live as sustainably as possible: to reduce, reuse, and recycle. As an adult, I find myself seeking out businesses that embody this sustainable, community-minded outlook.
As Earth Day 2026 draws near, I wanted to take a moment and highlight some of the eco-friendly, sustainable businesses in Rochester that I frequent.
Rochester Greenovation
Location: 22 Flint Street
Started in 2011 as a tool-lending library, deconstructing the ‘unbuilding’ of houses, hosting and participating in eco-friendly events, and building tiny houses. Since then, it has evolved into a giant warehouse where you can find unique vintage items. The best part? All money made is put directly back into the community through various partnerships with other non-profits.
What I love most: Greenovation is staffed entirely by volunteers, so when you stop in at 22 Flint St, make sure to thank them!
Marilla’s Mindful Supplies
Location: 661 South Ave, Suite D
Have you ever said to yourself when opening something you’ve ordered online—or even from our local Wegmans—“This is a lot of unnecessary packaging!” Marilla’s Mindful Supplies is the answer to your unnecessary packaging woes. Owner and operator Marilla worked in the health food industry and became frustrated with all of the single-use plastic. She started investigating what a store with little to no packaging would look like; soon after, she opened her flagship store in Geneva. Both locations and her online shop are stocked with everything, including pantry items, cleaning supplies, beauty products, and pet products.
What I love most: the ability to refill your products in-store reduces the need to find creative uses for that too-cute-to-throw-out container (of which I am definitely guilty).
Tell us, what other eco-friendly businesses do you frequent in Rochester?
–– Terra K
Join us at our Earth Day Celebration!
When: April 22nd, 6-8PM
Where: Brockport First Baptist Church