Shop at a farmers' market
Why This is Green
Farmers' markets are a great way to shop local for fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, dairy and even baked goods, as well as, honey, beeswax candles, cheese, and more. The environmental benefits of shopping at a farmers’ market include less packaging (don’t forget your reusable bags!), fewer transportation miles, and sustainably grown food. Many of the farms that sell at farmers’ markets are practicing sustainable agriculture methods even if they’re not certified organic—particularly when it comes to pesticide use and irrigation.
Nothing tastes quite as good as farm-fresh food. And, in most markets, you’ll get an up close education about where your food comes from. Shoppers can speak directly with their farmers about anything under the sun—from the weather to their growing methods to the best ways to cook things like purple cauliflower and other heirloom varieties. This proximity to the farmers is especially useful when it comes to meat and dairy; shoppers can ask about what the animals ate and if they’re administered antibiotics or hormones.
Learn More
- Sustainable Table: Local Food Is Sustainable
- Leopold Center For Sustainable Agriculture: PDF--Comparing Food Miles For Local Versus Conventional Produce Sales To Iowa Institutions
- Rodale.com: Make The Most Of Your Farmers' Market
- USDA.gov: Farmers' Markets And Local Food Marketing
- PracticallyGreen.com Farmers' Market Favorites
How To
If you don’t already know where there is a farmers’ market near you, check online. Don’t only look for ones near your home on weekends—there might be one around the corner from your office you can frequent on your lunch break. And check for winter farmers’ markets, too.
Always ask questions! Don’t be reluctant; most farmers are happy to chat. And bring your kids if you have them. Let them help by picking out something that looks good. They might even try a new vegetable!
