Sustainable Shopping in Austria

Austria leads Europe in organic food production, with nearly a quarter of all agricultural land certified organic. This commitment to sustainable agriculture translates into excellent shopping options for environmentally conscious consumers throughout the country.

From traditional farmers markets operating for centuries to modern package-free stores, Austria offers diverse ways to shop sustainably while supporting local producers and reducing environmental impact.

Farmers Markets (Bauernmaerkte)

Austrian farmers markets are among the best in Europe, offering fresh, seasonal produce directly from regional producers. Shopping at these markets reduces transportation emissions, eliminates most packaging, and supports local farming communities.

What to Expect

Austrian farmers markets typically operate one or two days per week, usually on Fridays and Saturdays. Vendors sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, dairy products, eggs, bread, meat, honey, and specialty items like preserves and baked goods.

• Products are generally fresher and more seasonal than supermarket options
• Many vendors accept returns of egg cartons and other packaging for reuse
• Prices can be higher than supermarkets but quality typically exceeds commercial produce
• Arriving early ensures best selection, while late arrivals may find reduced prices

Notable Markets by Region

Vienna: The Naschmarkt is the city's most famous market, though it leans more toward restaurants and specialty foods. For pure farmers market experience, try Brunnenmarkt (Saturdays), Karmelitermarkt, or the dedicated organic market at Freyung (Fridays and Saturdays).

Salzburg: The Gruenmarkt in the old town operates daily and offers excellent regional products including mountain cheeses and cured meats.

Graz: Kaiser-Josef-Platz hosts one of Austria's largest farmers markets, known particularly for Styrian specialties like pumpkin seed oil.

Organic Supermarkets (Bio-Supermaerkte)

For everyday shopping, Austria has several organic supermarket chains that offer convenient access to certified organic products.

Major Chains

• Denn's Biomarkt: The largest organic supermarket chain in Austria with locations in most major cities. Offers comprehensive selection including fresh produce, packaged goods, personal care, and household items.
• Basic Bio: Premium organic supermarket with a focus on quality and specialty items. Stores include in-house bakeries and deli counters.
• BioMio: Smaller chain with emphasis on regional Austrian products and fair trade items.

Conventional supermarkets also stock significant organic selections. Billa Plus, Spar, and Hofer (Aldi) all have dedicated organic product lines, making sustainable choices accessible even without specialty stores nearby.

Package-Free Stores (Unverpackt-Laeden)

The zero waste movement has brought package-free stores to Austrian cities. These shops allow customers to bring their own containers and purchase exactly the quantity needed, eliminating packaging waste entirely.

How Package-Free Shopping Works

1. Bring clean containers from home (jars, bags, bottles)
2. Weigh your empty container at the store (the tare weight)
3. Fill with desired product from bulk dispensers
4. Weigh again at checkout - you pay only for the product weight

Products Commonly Available

• Dry goods: pasta, rice, cereals, flour, nuts, dried fruits
• Liquids: oils, vinegars, cleaning products, shampoos
• Spices and herbs
• Coffee and tea
• Snacks and sweets
• Fresh bread and baked goods

Sustainable Fashion and Goods

Beyond food, Austria offers growing options for sustainable clothing, household goods, and personal care products.

Second-Hand Shopping

Thrift stores (Second-Hand Laeden) and vintage shops provide affordable, sustainable clothing options while keeping textiles out of landfills.

• Caritas and Volkshilfe shops: Charity-run thrift stores found throughout Austria
• Humana: Large second-hand clothing stores in major cities
• Vintage and curated second-hand boutiques: Higher-end options in urban centers

Ethical New Products

For new items, look for certifications that indicate sustainable and ethical production:

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Ensures organic fibers and ethical production
• Fair Trade: Guarantees fair wages and working conditions
• Blauer Engel: German eco-label covering various product categories
• EU Ecolabel: European environmental certification

Reducing Shopping Impact

Beyond choosing sustainable products, how you shop matters for overall environmental impact.

Practical Strategies

• Consolidate trips: Combine shopping errands to reduce transportation emissions
• Choose local delivery options: When ordering online, select local pickup or consolidated delivery to reduce packaging and transport
• Buy quality over quantity: Durable goods may cost more initially but reduce long-term consumption
• Repair before replacing: Austria has active repair cafe networks and professional repair services

Seasonal Considerations

Shopping seasonally significantly reduces the environmental footprint of food purchases. Austria's distinct seasons mean different products are available throughout the year.

• Spring: Asparagus, rhubarb, early greens, radishes
• Summer: Berries, stone fruits, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini
• Autumn: Apples, pears, pumpkins, root vegetables, grapes
• Winter: Storage vegetables (potatoes, cabbage, carrots), preserved goods

Resources

For more information on sustainable shopping in Austria:

• Bio Austria - Organic Farming Association
• Bewusst Kaufen - Austrian Sustainability Shopping Guide
• Austrian Ecolabel