by Marilyn Price and Bridget Mazzini, Green Change
Activist and author Michael Pollan once said “Grow some, even a little, of your own food.” Why?
Scientists estimate that the way we eat accounts for about a third, between 25% to 37%, of harmful greenhouse gas emissions. By starting a garden, you cut out the packaging, transport, chemicals, and distribution linked to store-bought food, making a real impact on reducing your carbon footprint. Maybe you can’t grow it all, (coffee beans don’t do well where I live) but every bit of food you grow can make a difference.
Gardening is the solution that keeps on giving. You have a use for your food scraps if you compost, feed yourself uber- locally, and get to enjoy a bit of nature and exercise. And sharing your extra produce can put a smile on a neighbor’s face.
No yard, no problem. Consider looking into a community garden or shared garden. Or just grow what you can at home. Herbs like thyme and mint don’t take up much space on the deck or require much effort but add great flavor to home cooking. Plus homegrown herbs eliminate non-recyclable packaging.
This year, plant something, anything! And enjoy your harvest while helping cool the planet.
