Going local is a major component of any carbon footprint reduction effort. Here’s a quick list of some ways to keep it in the neighborhood.

1. Hit your local farm stand for your fruits and veggies. Small, family farms are almost completely extinct. Give the few that are left your business and avoid buying produce trucked into your local big-box store from Timbuktu.
2. Nothing is more local than that water flowing out of your tap. Install a water filter if need be. Drink it up and avoid those eco-unfriendly water bottles – particularly the fancy imported stuff.
3. Frequent restaurants that feature locally grown produce, meats and seafood. Anything that is shipped by truck or plane is a major no-no. If the eatery isn’t doing enough to support local producers, let them know about it.
4. Small businesses are in trouble all across America. Frequent your local shops, like the hardware store and bakery to support your neighbors, instead of giant corporations.
5. Save some cash and stock-up on fruits and veggies on-the-cheap by picking your own. We’re hitting the blueberry patch this weekend.
6. Find regional energy companies that offer an option to buy power from alternative energy producers.
7. Ride a bike and most likely, you’ll have to buy local out of necessity, while enjoying the added benefits of saving gas and keeping in shape.
8. Farmers’ markets can offer you a wide range of local foods, crafts and flowers. Find one nearby @ localharvest.org
9. If you need a bottle of wine with that dinner, look to your local vineyards whenever possible (I realize this can be risky, so go for a tasting before buying).
10. Get your threads from local thrift shops, clothing makers and designers.

photo credits: cambridge farmer’s market & watkins glen farmer’s market

Related:  previously on altCon

farmers’ markets -what’s the deal?  (8.8.07)

U.K. based Zoozoo2 makes t-shirts for those with an affinity for outdoor activity and an appreciation of environment. Their surf, ski, canoeing and snowboarding tees are made exclusively of organic cotton. The little eco-minded brand was originally the brainchild of a 13-year-old eco-entrepreneur. They donate a portion of each sale to social and environmental initiatives.

the t-shirts go for £25 @ zoozoo2.com

Although practiced in China for some say, over 4000 years, acupuncture is still not embraced wholeheartedly by “western medicine.” But in my experience, having tiny needles stimulate my qi (or, chi) and balance my yin and yang, has proved to be very effective. Having had positive results a few years ago for treatments for a torn ACL and separately, a torn muscle in my neck, I thought I’d try acupuncture to help alleviate my spring-summer allergies.

And ahhh, what sweet relief. Pre-acupuncture, when I traversed the city streets, a 12-block walk would entail needing at least six Kleenex. Tears would stream down my face like a water faucet, and I could hardly breathe. Now, after only three treatments I can breathe freely and not be uncomfortable. If you’re interested, my wise and gentle practitioner is Janine Ptzszek, and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for acupuncture care. She can be reached @ Better Life Acupuncture. (note — Janine also has “group sessions” of 2-3 people and offers a special, reduced rate for this scenario.) Here’s to your good health!

Find a practitioner in your area @ acufinder.com

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