Transportation
Before even setting foot in the store, several important decisions must be made that can heavily impact the environment. The transportation we choose can effect air quality, energy consumption and personal expenses. The best
choices do not rely on burning fossil fuels, i.e. cars or buses, but instead use human power - walking or bicycling. If
this is not possible, the next preferred mode is mass transportation (like buses or subways) followed by carpooling.
Paper Products
In terms of environmental impact, paper is one of the worst products at the market, adding to deforestation, water pollution, dioxin production, and taking up landfill space. Purchasing unbleached, recycled paper products is an important choice for improving the environment.
The Produce Department
To reduce
wasteful packaging, bring containers or bags from home and pick
out produce from bulk displays. As a measure of energy conservation,
choose produce grown close-to-home and not shipped from afar. Encourage
chemical-free farming by purchasing organic produce unless the price is
prohibitive.
Soaps, Bleaches, Detergents
When shopping for cleaners and detergents, avoid any product containing
chlorine, phosphates, and petroleum by-products (oil is a limited resource).
Chlorine bleach alternatives are plentiful, low-phosphate dishwasher detergents
clean effectively, and citrus- or vegetable-based soaps biodegrade very
quickly.
Buying Bulk - Dry Goods
A great way to save money and to reduce packaging is to buy in bulk. This
means either purchasing items in family sized proportions or filling reusable
containers from bins of dry goods such as coffee, flour, cereal and many
others. Natural food stores and cooperatives often sell syrup, oils, and
honey in bulk. Even small households can benefit when joining with neighbors
to purchase items they can divide up, splitting costs and sharing
transportation.
Bring Your Own Bag
"Paper or plastic?" is one question that we never have to hear if we bring
in our own canvas, cotton, mesh or paper bags for packing groceries. This
simple act not only saves trees and energy but reduces costs to the store,
which can be passed on to the consumer.
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