Eat Locally Grown Food
Purchase food and beverages that are locally grown. For many, local food is interpreted as unprocessed food, to be transformed by the consumer or local shop rather than by the food industry. As such, local food (as opposed to global food) reduces or eliminates the costs of transport, processing, packaging, and advertising.
The definition of "local" or "regional" has for a long time been flexible and defined differently depending on the organization in question. However, more recently USDA has acted to suggest that 400 miles is the actual maximum distance under which local can be reasonably or ethically defined. This is good for the environment because it reduces fuel emissions through transportation.
Another effect is the increase in food quality and taste. Locally grown fresh food is consumed almost immediately after harvest, so it is sold fresher and usually riper (e.g. picked at peak maturity, as it would be from a home garden). Also, the need for chemical preservatives and irradiation to artificially extend shelf-life is reduced or eliminated.
One of the easiest things someone can do to eat locally is to shop at a local farmer's market. For a list of farmer's markets in Brooklyn, click here.
