Camilla Marcus, a prominent figure in sustainable dining and entrepreneurship, has made a name for herself as an activist for food systems and environmental sustainability. She founded New York City’s first certified zero-waste restaurant, west~bourne, in 2018. Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Marcus transformed west~bourne into an online provisions brand focused on regeneration, expanding its impact beyond its physical space.
Marcus exclusively sources ingredients from regenerative farms, aligning with her mission to promote personal and planetary health through food. By supporting small growers who use regenerative methods, Marcus aims to drive demand for this emerging system that can combat the climate crisis. She values building relationships with conscious stewards of the land and prioritizes sourcing high-quality, nutrient-rich ingredients from regenerative farms.
One of Marcus’ key products is avocado oil, which she chose over other oils for its environmental benefits and neutral flavor profile. West~bourne’s avocado oil is 100% pure and stands out from other brands that may be blended or rancid. The cultivation of avocados fosters biodiversity and supports regenerative farming practices, contributing to a healthier ecosystem and a more sustainable future. Marcus is continually innovating and expanding west~bourne’s product offerings, with plans for reformulating snack mixes and partnering with major grocery stores.
In the fall, Marcus will release a cookbook titled “My Regenerative Kitchen,” which aims to make regenerative agriculture actionable and applicable to consumers. The book includes stories, research, recipes, and tips to inspire readers to embrace a lifestyle that honors the Earth while nurturing their own health. Marcus believes that every small shift we make towards sustainability collectively builds towards significant impact and drives us towards a future of continuous evolution and progress.
Regenerative kitchens seek to reverse the damage caused by industrial farming and food production, focusing on sourcing regeneratively, upcycling, and minimizing food waste. Marcus encourages individuals to embrace plant-based diets, eliminate plastics and harmful chemicals from their homes, and compost their food waste. Consumers’ actions, such as supporting regenerative agriculture and composting, can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Marcus believes that the long-term solution to the climate crisis lies with regenerative agriculture and reconnecting with the land. She emphasizes the importance of shifting our mindset towards respecting the land’s natural processes and supporting an industry that values sustainability. By making conscious decisions about what to eat and drink each day, consumers can play a crucial role in shifting the food industry towards sustainability and combating the climate crisis.
