Step 5 - Food

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The food most of us purchase today is responsible for consuming large amounts of energy by the time it reaches a grocery store or restaurant. Organic food uses much less energy compared to other foods as it does not rely on fossil-fuel based fertilizers to increase crop sizes. Organic food is also free of commonly used pesticides. While some people are concerned with paying more for organic food, more and more people are willing to pay for the higher quality food. In fact, organic food is now the fastest growing segment in grocery stores. To find where you can purchase organic food, see the Canadian Organic Food Growers website.

Local food is another option that uses less energy as it is not shipped long distances. Consider a simple apple. It is a fruit grown in many parts of Canada, it can be stored for long periods of time, and therefore is available in grocery stores year round. So why are there imported apples from half way around the world that need to be transported by ship, train, and truck?

The average Canadian meal travels 1,200 kilometres from field to plate. In addition, the average Canadian meal contains ingredients from five different countries - FIVE countries! This gives you some insight into how our food is contributing to global warming and your carbon footprint.

The solution is one that benefits all of us. Buy organic food and local food. This will not only contribute to your efforts to go green, but will support your local economy and most likely give you food that is more rich in vitamins and flavour compared to the ones picked early and shipped long distances. This is a healthy choice all around.