In this article, we'll walk you through the supermarket aisles to explain the common sustainability terms. We'll break down the concepts into easy-to-understand insights, making sustainable shopping simple and effective. Grab your tote bags and let's dive into the world of sustainable shopping!
Fair Trade: Supporting Ethical Production
The International Fair Trade Charter 2018 defines fair trade as "a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade" (see here).
When you see the fair trade label on your coffee, chocolate, or bananas, it means that the brand ensures better prices, working conditions, environmental sustainability, and better terms of trade for marginalised producers and workers. Fair trade products offer better trading conditions to workers - usually in the global South - through standards, certification, and partnerships based on transparency and equity in international trade. By choosing fair trade products, you're supporting decent working conditions and sustainable livelihoods for farmers and workers around the world.
Organic: Nature-friendly Production
Next up, let's dive into a widely used term: 'organic'. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation, organic agriculture is "a holistic production management system which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity" (see: here).
When you choose organic fruits and vegetables, you're avoiding harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, prioritizing soil health and biodiversity. Organic farming practices also help reduce water pollution and conserve energy, benefiting your health and the environment.
Locally Sourced: Supporting Your Community
Consuming locally sourced products goes a very long way. The United Nations defines local food systems as "collaborative solid networks and circular economy models [1] for enhanced resilience and sustainability of production" (see here). By choosing locally sourced goods, you reduce the carbon footprint [2] associated with transportation and support your local economy.
Whether it's fresh produce from nearby farms or artisanal products from local producers, shopping local is a straightforward yet profoundly impactful way to promote sustainability in your community.
Zero-Waste: Minimising Your Footprint
Ever heard of 'zero waste stores'?
Defined by the Zero Waste International Alliance, 'zero waste' is "the conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health" (source: here).
By adopting a zero-waste lifestyle, you minimise waste, conserve resources, and reduce your environmental footprint. This means bidding goodbye to single-use plastics and embracing reusable containers, cloth bags, and bulk bins. Start small by bringing your shopping bags and containers, and witness how your actions contribute to a cleaner, greener future for all.
Shelf Life: Reducing Food Waste
Finally, let's touch on the importance of checking product shelf life. According to the World Food Programme 2020, one-third of food produced globally is lost or wasted annually (yes, 30%!). Being mindful of expiration dates and selecting products with longer shelf lives can help mitigate food waste and save money. Remember to plan your meals, store food properly, and get creative with leftovers to optimise your groceries and minimise waste.
That's it! You're now equipped to navigate the supermarket aisles with confidence and conscience. By choosing fair trade, organic, locally sourced, and zero-waste products, you're making a difference, one purchase at a time! To find out more about sustainable shopping, join us on Ganddee - the one stop shop for all things sustainable in the UK!
Happy shopping!
[1] A circular economy model includes eliminating waste, circulating materials/products at their highest value for as long as possible, transforming production/consumption patterns, regenerating natural systems, and contrasting the circular model with the traditional linear "take-make-waste" models.
[2] A carbon footprint is a quantitative measure of the total greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide, caused directly or indirectly by the activities of an individual, organization, product or service over its entire lifecycle. It allows comparison of climate impacts.
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