Sampson

Small Steps Towards Eating Sustainably

written by Maggie Sampson

As our planet continues to face the effects of climate change, the conversation around living sustainably is more prevalent than ever before. Using solar panels, thrifting, and recycling are just a few of the many ways people can adjust their lifestyles for a more manageable future. Unfortunately, it is typical for individual efforts to feel futile in comparison to the influence of industries like fossil fuels, plastics, and big agriculture. Oftentimes, the task seems too large for any individual to take on their own. Luckily, there is a clear rise in involvement with eating sustainably—one of the most influential changes we can make for the environment and our health.

Due to an increasing demand for natural and organic food, more people are attending farmers markets. Every year, markets that sell organic products report more customers per week, more vendors, and larger monthly sales. The draw to naturally produced foods shows a growing concern for both what people are putting into their bodies and how it is produced. As a result, more farmers are adopting practices that help to improve, rather than degrade, the natural environment.

Farmers Markets provide an outlet for community members to find and purchase local, sustainably grown food. Since the

farmers involved engage in environmentallyfriendly practices, they are able to provide fresh and healthy food to individuals who, in turn, provide the money necessary to help the farmers’ businesses; creating a mutually beneficial relationship. A Vermont Price Study even found that, of the items compared, prices for many conventional and organic products were lower at farmers markets than nearby supermarkets.

Farmers selling at markets minimize the amount of waste and pollution they create in a number of ways. Locally or regionally sourced produce travels about 27 times less distance than conventionally sourced produce. From the point of production to retail grocers food travels an average of 1000 miles, but many farmers markets only allow vendors to sell food produced within 200 miles (some only allow food grown within 50 miles). Additionally, many farmers markets use certified organic practices, reducing the amount of synthetic pesticides and chemicals that pollute soil and water. To help mitigate climate change and other environmental issues caused by agriculture, a growing number of farmers are adopting other low-impact practices like on-site composting and recyclable packaging methods.

Not only do farmers markets help communities eat healthfully and sustainably, they are inherently convenient! Especially in Champaign-Urbana, a community virtually surrounded by farms. Starting May 18th the Champaign Farmers Market will open from 3-6pm every Tuesday in the parking lot at Neil & Washington in downtown Champaign. The Market operates all the way through October 26th and is easily accessible by public transit. Vendors will offer meat, eggs, produce, baked goods, bread, desserts, flowers,herbal products, dog treats, and food trucks, with information about the vendors posted weekly.

If you prefer to shop on weekends, there is always Urbana’s Market at the Square. Champaign-Urbana’s largest market welcomes thousands of visitors a year. With staple foods, specialty items, and fun activities, there is a reason for everyone to get involved! Running May-October every Saturday morning from 7am-noon, Urbana’s Market at the Square is another great way to shop sustainably. Additionally, both the ChampaignUrbana farmers markets utilize the LINK Match incentive program to provide foodinsecure community members with benefits and relief throughout the season.