Less food miles less co2

Food miles is the term we use for the distance food travels from where it is produced to where it is consumed. Obviously foods imported or not locally grown will travel more food miles than the local produce. Importing foodstuffs over long distance is bad business ecologically as greater distance transported equals more greenhouse gas emissions. 

International transport

Air freight causes higher levels of emissions than other forms of transport. Although currently comprising a small percentage of goods transported, air freight is becoming increasingly popular.

Domestic transport

Australia is a country of great diversity and long distances. Because of our diverse climate it is possible to  to buy avocados from Queensland at our supermarket, which would have racked up a significant number of food miles to get to us. Buying something that is labelled “ Product of Australia” can still mean purchasing a product that has travelled vast distances. In addition, the processing of foods and the use of packaging contributes further to greenhouse gas emissions. Locally grown produce can be transported long distances to the place of packaging, returned to the place of origin and still be sold as locally grown. Beware.

What are the impacts?

It is important for consumers to remember the food they choose will have an impact on the environment. Food consumption makes up 41 per cent of an individual's eco-footprint, so well-informed eco-friendly decisions about food consumption can reduce the amount of carbon for which we are responsible.

A  reduction in food miles not only decreases a household's contribution to environmental degradation, pollution and global warming, it also provides the consumer with fresher food, supports the local economy, and has  the potential to influence farmers to improve the ecological sustainability of their farming practices.

What can we do to cut down on food miles?

* We can buy locally-produced and processed food.

* When buying imported goods, opt for shipped rather than air freighted items. 

* Eat foods that are locally in season. We are lucky to live in a place like Orange, where there is something delicious to eat all year round.

* Walk or ride your bike to the local markets.

* If using your car, plan your shopping trips to minimise inefficient travel. Carpool if possible.

* Grow some of your own vegetables, herbs and fruit.

* Look into the sustainability of particular foods in your area. Do they require exorbitant resources such as water, pest control or energy? Could you choose a more sustainable alternative?