April's Go Green Tip: Shop at Your Local Farmer's Market

The weather in this gorgeous state is finally starting to warm up (thank you mother nature!) It's making me really excited for the season where we can shop at all of the amazing local farmers markets here in Denver.

You may be wondering how shopping at your local farmer's market can help you live a more green life? Well...

Conserves Fuel

Most supermarkets bring their produce in from hundreds or even thousands of miles away. This means there is a significant use of fuel for shipping on refrigerated trucks and rail cars. In contrast, farmer’s market produce doesn’t have far to go very far to get from the farm to your table. That means you reduce the use of fossil fuels! AND since most farmer’s markets are held outside in the open air they also don't require electricity or heating!

Minimize Environmental Waste

Another benefit to shopping at local farmers markets is that most of the fruit comes from small family farms. These types of farms produce much less environmental waste (carbon monoxide, pesticide use, and chemical fertilizers) than most larger industrial farms. They are also less likely to use the giant processing and sorting machines common to industrial farms which contribute to environmental degradation.

Organic and non-GMO

Most farmers at farmers markets use organic methods to grow their produce so you know you're purchasing chemical free food. They are also more likely to use non-modified seeds (you can ask them about both!) Since organic food production avoids use of all synthetic chemicals there is no risk of soil and underground water contamination that is a major issue with industrial farming.

Still not convinced? Here are some other reasons to head to your local farmer's market this season!

Foods are Farm Fresh

Since (as we mentioned above) so many fruits and vegetables travel long distances to arrive at your grocery store, the ones you see in your grocery store are often at least several days old before they even reach the store! Farmer’s market produce, however, is on the opposite end of the spectrum. In most cases, the owner of the stand has just picked the vegetables!

Support your Local Economy

Did you know that most farmer’s market produce is grown within 100 miles of the market. That means that you are supporting local people who are likely to spend money locally!

Supports Family Farms

Over the years the number of local family farms has decreased and the amount of industrial farming has increased. It can be difficult for local farmers to compete with these massive conglomerate-run farms that produce massive amounts of inferior cheap produce. Buying from your local farmer helps keep them in business!