Grand Rapids goes green with the help of Tree Huggers | Business

by Scott Kaplan in LOCAL LIFE in collaboration with West Michigan Environmental Action Council's Environmental Bureau

Angela Topp knows that “going green” can seem like a daunting task without the right help. She recalls her own experience a few years ago, trying to buy supplies to start vermicomposting. She had to order her supplies – including her worms – online, and was frustrated that she didn’t have a place to go or anyone to talk to when she had questions.

“Everything within the green industry is kind of overwhelming. Whether it’s recycling or composting or buying safe toys for your kids, it all seems like it’s too much when you first look at it, like the picture is too big,” Topp said. “I just got sick of buying everything online. A lot of people really don’t do a whole lot because they don’t necessarily know how to get started, and they don’t really have anywhere to go or anyone to talk to that just says, ‘hey it’s actually really easy.’"

In 2010, Topp opened the first Tree Hugger store in Holland. Last August, she moved into her second location in Grand Rapids last August. Located at the corner of Diamond Avenue and Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, the store is dedicated to green living and prides itself on...

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