Going Green & Sustainability

GREEN is a term now widely used to describe buildings designed and constructed with minimal negative impact to the environment and with an emphasis on conservation of resources, energy efficiency, and healthful interior spaces. GREEN also describes a food system that can lessen the carbon footprint and still feed your family. When you go to the grocery store, bring a tote bag with you, old plastic bags or some sort of sturdy bag you have lying around the house. Most stores now give you a "green credit" of some sort, amounting to extra value points or a few cents off per bag reused. If you don't have a bag, most stores offer their own option now for you to buy. Shop local farms. Skip the grocery store and hit the local farmer's market or do some research in your area to see if there are local farms that deliver to your doorstep. Sounds a little unlikely, but you would be shocked how many small farms are more than happy to do this service for you. Not only are you supporting your community, but you're also buying better, fresher produce. Buy local. If you can't find a farm or are still unsure about that option, many grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's (and even sometimes at big names like Stop and Shop) you can find a "local" option. It may not be quite as close as the local farms, but it still is better because it cuts down shipping and transport cost and energy, again ensuring that your community is supported and the least energy is expended. Don't over buy. We've all been there, buying so much food we could supply the neighborhood in the event of a disaster. It's not necessary. Not only are you wasting your money, you're also being wasteful with food. If you up the demand on farms, they're more likely to outsource to larger farms that are often outside the country. Use only what you need.

SUSTAINABILITY refers to the concept that new development must meet the needs of the
present without compromising those of the future. Sustainability is measured in three
interdependent dimensions: the environment, economics, and society—often referred to as the triple bottom line.