Eight Ways To Make Sustainable Eating An Every Day Choice
1. Be aware of the seasons and eat food that is available locally in-season.
Avoid asparagus shipped in from California in February (you only have a few months left to get fresh, delicious, local spears!) and indulge in strawberries in June. Consult seasonal eating guides like the REAP Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas to know what is in season in your area and plan your shopping accordingly. Lengthen short growing seasons by freezing, canning, drying or otherwise putting up seasonal favorites.
2. Commit to purchasing a certain percentage of food locally and plan to increase that amount with time and experience.
You don’t have to go all local at one time, instead begin by determining which foods you know you can get locally and pledge to gradually add to that list. Consider participating in an “Eat Local Challenge” for a fun way to expand your local food repertoire.
3. Be an informed eater.
From books by award winning journalists like Michael Pollan and Eric Schlosser to films and documentaries like Food, Inc. and Fresh there is a wealth of high quality information available to help you discover the story behind our food system. Better information will help you make better choices.
4. Teach the next generation to eat sustainably.
Programs like REAP's “Farm to School” and school gardens are helping young people make the connection between what they eat and why it is important for the health of their bodies and the health of our planet. Get involved at your child’s school and help teachers bring programs like these to the classroom.
5. Get to know your local food “scene.”
Consult a guide like the Farm Fresh Atlas or the Buy Fresh Buy Local list of restaurants and select a new place to eat out or purchase food at least once a month. You’ll discover foods you never knew grew in Wisconsin and experience new ways to prepare local favorites.
6. Take part in the sustainable food movement.
Look for ways you can help your community expand the opportunities to eat healthfully and sustainably: volunteer for a food pantry, help start a community garden, donate to a local food-related charity or attend a fundraiser for sustainable eating.
7. Give the gift of sustainable eating.
Help friends and family discover the joy and satisfaction of eating sustainably by serving local ingredients at family events and social functions. During the holidays or other special occasions, choose locally-made foodstuffs like preserves, honey and charcuterie.
8. Vote with your fork and your ballot.
In addition to choosing food that is grown in a way that is compatible with your values, ask that your elected representatives support legislation that is good for sustainable farmers and expands the market for local and sustainable food.