Live ethically - buy locally

Gareth Jones describes his quest to live more ethically by buying local produce.

The Guardian food miles report National Association of Farmers Markets A pick your own farm

Many shops and supermarkets import fresh produce from other countries when they are out of season. A report published by The Guardian in 2003 found that a selection of 20 fresh food items purchased from British supermarkets had travelled an average of 5,000 miles each, whilst in North America the average was over 1,000 miles. If produce continues to be imported in this way the environmental cost has to be considered. The reality is simple: more miles means more pollution.

But does this mean that if we buy local produce poorer countries suffer? It may appear that way, but in reality imports are usually subsidised by the government, therefore the true cost of these imports is hidden. The large companies driving these imports also appear to be uninterested in the well-being of these farmers and their environment.

So, in the name of thinking globally and acting locally, over these last few months I've started to try and buy local produce to minimise the number of miles my food travels before it gets to my plate. Here are the findings of my culinary quest.

Farmers markets were initially inspired from the Farmers Market run in the US. These are now popular in towns and villages all around the UK. The National Association of Farmers Markets has a website where you can find your local farmers market. Farmers Markets bring you face to face with the producers of food and, whilst not particularly cheap, the food seems to tastes 10 times better (much like your home grown). Bargains do still exist, especially seasonal produce.

Local produce shops range from the specialised and expensive, right through to your local butcher. This is a much better option because, whilst supermarkets are often keen to inform customers about the source of their products (especially when they are from the UK), it doesn't mean the environmental costs are significantly reduced see here.

Farm shops are great places to buy fresh local produce and, unlike Farmers Markets, they are usually able to stock a wider variety. To find your local farm shop, visit the Farma website.

Pick Your Own farms are a fun source of local produce, why not give them a try next summer?

It can be really enjoyable shopping around for food in different markets and shops, but if we could replicate the success and convenience of supermarkets with locally produced food, imagine the success. The 'supermarket' would act as a confederation of local producers. That really would be a 'SUPER' market. Until that day arrives the best thing we can do is buy local produce whenever possible. But try to remember it's important to maintain a balance between fair trade and local produce. Remember too that the customer is always right: if you don't ask for the goods you want, you won't get them.