I was recently inspired by the book Force of Nature, written by one of the world’s best known surfers, Laird Hamilton. It covers a whole host of subjects including diet, exercise and, of course, surfing. As I read the book through the month of January, it led me to add another resolution to my New Year’s list – start choosing more organic foods.
I’ve never actively sought out an organic diet in the past. I usually thought it was too expensive. On finding an organic store just 10 minutes from my house, I was shocked to find how much choice there was and how cost effective it could be.
QUICK TIPS: Take a minute to check out other ways to make responsible eating choices.
Most of my previous experience in organic food choices had been the limited products that the major supermarket chains carry, or don’t, as the case may be.
My local organic market is a small, regional grocer that can be found in Maryland and Virginia. This small-scale chain selects organic products wherever possible, and always tries to buy locally.
These stores work with businesses, community organizations and schools to educate consumers about being environmentally responsible and will often provide them with free educational materials.
As I’ve tried to learn more about eating and buying local, I’ve found it feels good to be supporting a company that thinks responsibly and sustainably and that helps support local farmers who may often be competing against larger corporations.
Too often, I think, these large stores transport produce from greater distances away and subsequently have a larger carbon footprint. Plus, I feel as though I’m investing in my future health by eating less chemical-laden foods.
While I’m green when it comes to the subject of eating organic foods (pun very much intended) I hope in time that it will become second nature to me.
It’s not going to be an overnight change and definitely takes some fore-thought, especially when it comes to preparing dinner, for example. But it’s refreshing to get inspired from reading a good book, and it’s made me get serious about the long-term effects of a good diet and the environmental implications of the choices we make.
In time, I hope that this will lead me to encourage others to think more closely about what they consume and to make more informed choices when it comes to what and where they buy it.
CI VOICES: Staff members share their recommendations for eating and shopping green.
TRAVELING: Far From Home? Sleep Green
SHINING EXAMPLE: Responsible Jewelry Shines Brighter