I was having a conversation the other day, trying to explain why “[1] food miles” are not my main schtick, even though our group is called Seacoast Eat Local and we host an annual Eat Local Challenge that takes geography into account. And then[2] this post from [3] UNH’s Discovering Sustainability blog popped up, articulating all those thoughts about the complexities of carbon and the myriad of other reasons I choose to source the vast majority of my food directly from small, local farms and think others should do the same:

For example, buying local supports community economic development, helping communities sustain their livelihood and character. It provides access to the freshest food available, enhancing taste and reducing food waste. And it strengthens our food community, encouraging social networks and food security in our communities and regions. Not only that, but knowing where your food comes from can help you advocate for lower-carbon production methods in your community, such as reducing fertilizer usage, no-till agriculture methods, and pasture-based livestock systems.