Nestled in Tucson’s vibrant Mercado District, surrounded by picturesque shops and the hum of community life, lies Cero: Beyond Zero Waste Shop. Whether soaking up the ambiance of the Mercado, browsing for sustainable goods or uncovering the works of a local artist, shoppers at Cero get more than retail therapy.
“I was inspired to open Cero in 2009 when I was learning about the global plastic pollution crisis and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch,” says Val Santillan, the shop’s owner. “I thought: Can’t we have stores without all the waste?”
That question evolved into Cero, a boutique that’s part zero-waste store, part community hub, part artists’ venue — and an essential stop for eco-conscious travelers exploring Arizona.
“Some of the best moments are when people walk in and say, ‘I’m so happy you exist!’” Val shares. “Those interactions remind me why I started this.”
A Space with Personal Touches
Cero offers better-for-the-planet goods made from eco-friendly materials, plus multi-purpose containers and refillable home and beauty products to help customers shift away from single-use with ease. But sustainability goes beyond what’s on the shelves. Cero’s fixtures and furniture are each carefully selected secondhand finds, many adapted for their new purpose. Val’s husband even helped transport the cabinet that now holds the refill bar.
The store also holds cherished memories in the form of thoughtful gifts from loyal customers like persimmons wrapped in reusable cloth or bundles of cinnamon adorned with paper stars.
The personal touches also include a special visitor to the shop.
“Some days, my almost-one-year-old daughter joins me,” Val says with a smile.
Where Sustainability Meets Community
From its inception, Cero has been a reflection of Tucson itself. The store highlights local makers — emerging artists and established creatives alike — and brings their work to the forefront. The walls of Cero are adorned with pieces like Gavin Hugh Troy’s art on reclaimed wood and Revolta Art’s cardboard wall hangings.
Cero’s connection to the community can be seen in its Cerocycling program, too. Customers donate reusable items to support local nonprofits; for example, empty prescription bottles for local animal care centers or unused takeout utensils for community partners that provide free meals. The shop also hosts regular litter pick-ups, inviting Tucson residents and visitors to join in beautifying shared spaces.
Looking Ahead
As Cero continues to grow, Val envisions adding more refill products, introducing a local foods section and hosting additional learning events. “We want to do more litter pick-ups and expand our team to make it all happen,” she says.
Val’s Top 5 Things to Do in Tucson
When Val isn’t at Cero, she loves exploring Tucson. Here are her must-do recommendations:
- Walk the Rillito River Path on a Sunday, concluding with stop at the Heirloom Farmers Market.
- Visit the Tucson Botanical Gardens or Tohono Chul Gardens for a serene escape.
- Spend a day at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to marvel at the region’s flora and fauna.
- Stop by Houlden’s Rise Above for vegan baked goods and a cold brew.
- Explore the Mercado District, where Cero is located, for its buzzy atmosphere, food, coffee and cocktails.
Ivy Morris
Ivy Morris has lived in Tucson for the past five years. If you happen to sit next to her at a bar and mention you're from out of town, prepare for recommendations on where to eat and what to do.
