I live in a city that is very aware of the need to reduce the carbon footprint of its citizens. Many of our residents are even referred to as “aging Hippies!” But they are interesting and do provide us with a different perspective on life.
It is interesting that during the recent economic crisis we heard much advertising about supporting our local merchants. That’s because this area is filled with small, independent businesses and the cut back in people’s spending really affected them.
However, I recently heard an ad on the radio which encouraged buying a product locally, but there were two reasons given. The first, of course, was to support the local company. But the second pointed out that when you buy their product instead of the same item shipped form hundreds of miles away, you are, indeed, reducing carbon emissions and use of fuel. Surprisingly, this ad was for bottled water.
Now, we are not going to go into the whole issue of buying water in all that plastic. Let’s save that for another post. Although I just read that this particular water company will soon be using biodegradable bottles!
What I’m talking about here is the fact that we have a great natural water resource and bottler no more than 20 miles away. But yet, we tend to buy water that has been shipped from hundreds of miles away. The point is, of course, that buying bottled water from this local resource takes much less fuel and creates fewer emissions when delivering than buying from a mega-supplier whose trucks travel all over the country. Perhaps that is an aspect we had not considered.
The same is true of buying local produce. Our city has set up weekend Tailgate Markets in several locations. Here, local growers can bring their wares to sell. It is really great. We end up supporting local farmers and in return we get the freshest produce ever. It is a win for everyone.
And the bonus is that since the delivery is near to the farmers, we are lessening that carbon footprint one more time. We are eliminating the need to buy produce shipped from across the country.
So look around your community. Shop at your independent merchants. Buy from your local producers of goods. Make the effort to contribute to our earth’s well being in these simple ways.
Till next time!
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