Upside on ...sustainability

We talk about sustainability. We dream about guiltless homes, dwellings that future generations can enjoy and cycles that continue to benefit all. Talking is easy - what would be truly amazing is if sustainability was second-nature, as if there was no other way of living. But that's quite a big jump, so Wednesday's blog topics will hope to take it one step at a time.

There aren't any formulas or textbooks, so where do we start? Well, with summer in full swing, take a look at your eating habits. Summer is the perfect time to incorporate produce from your local farmers' markets into your weekly groceries. I know this might sound easy at first, but it can be quite tough.

There are many markets here in Toronto, and most likely in your neighbourhoods too. The best way to start shopping local and supporting these markets is to first decide what meals you'd like to make for the week and what you'll need to make them. Make a list, but keep in mind that you might need to improvise once at the market - the idea is to eat as seasonally as possible.

Bring your list and your own bags and take a walk of the market first to see what everyone is selling. Don't be afraid to ask about the farms/farmers, where the produce is from and how it's grown. Sometimes farmers will fill in their stock with imported produce that they don't/can't grow. Try to avoid this. The same goes for your local butcher/dairy shop, ask questions, they'll be more than happy to answer them.

Now the tough part is to get enough portions to last the week, but not so much that food goes bad. Try your best not to break under pressure and hit up the closest major grocery store. If there's something you're craving or would like to add to your meal that you can't get from an independent local producer, than go without it. Convenience has become a terrrible luxury. This change takes time. As the seasons progress you might hit some bumps in your routine but keep at it. You'll see a difference - we promise - in the way you feel and in the taste of your food. The amount of waste you'll produce will drop as well (other than compostable matter, which we'll talk about in a future blog post). Getting your shopping done all at once means you'll have more time on your hands to spend on things you enjoy. And so the beneficial cycle begins.

Below is a link to the Toronto Farmers' Market Network with some markets in the area to definitely take in. If you know some that we've forgotten or even some in your area, feel free to post a comment. And let us know if you've tried this challenge and how it goes. Of course we'll keep you posted on our own adventures.

Toronto Farmers' Market Network:

http://tfmn.ca/?page_id=2