Aramark Canada is embarking on an initiative that commits buyers to purchase produce from local farmers for an entire year. It is part of the Ontario government’s $500,000 investment in various projects to promote locally grown foods.
The program, Go Local Everyday, is in partnership with Azoti, and comes with a generous $15,000 price tag. Aramark Canada’s history with green-friendly initiatives seems to justify the hefty price. They have consistently been recognized as one of the country’s greenest employers.
What does it mean to be green?
It’s about practices that lead to environmental sustainability. Global companies have a history of environmentally exploitative and irresponsible practices. Companies like Aramark are making conscientious choices, setting an example for consumers and sellers alike.
Not only would this initiative benefit five local farmers, it will create two new jobs. It is estimated to generate of $60,000 worth of sales. What makes this program unique is that it prepares farmers a year in advance to harvest a years worth of crops. Stable incomes will lead to security for farmers.
Sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated. It is as simple as where you shop for groceries. Your choices don’t have to cost you more. It won’t force you to step outside of your comfort zone. It’s about being cognizant of what you support, and the implications of it.
It seems ludicrous to politicize your grocery choices — it’s about recognizing the power in going local. Initiatives like the one taken by Aramark Canada, lead to environmental and economic stability.
Globalization has justified large food companies bulldozing through family-owned farms in efforts to consolidate their farming operations. Fierce competition places many families out of business. Supporting locally grown food keeps things within your backyard. It leads to autonomy by decreasing the reliance on external, industrial food sources in times of economic crisis.
Environmental benefits of buying local versus large-scale food production:
Sustainable farming decreases the use of pesticides and utilizes less invasive methods of food production on the environment. By limiting the transportation of foods, it decreases air pollution.
Industrial food production depends on fossil fuels and creates greenhouse gases. Around 40 per cent of energy used in the food production goes toward pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Packaging and processing methods are additional waste contributors. Fuel and energy use is a great stressor to the environment and populations. Sustainable agricultural practices can increase the production of food by up to 80 per cent.
Local farmers use solar energy methods to produce food. Locally grown produce is the healthier option. No fear of pesticides and genetically modified elements in your produce. The ingredients don’t come with a list — they’re as simple as what it is.
