Small, local farms good for environment

Earth Day was celebrated last Thursday. The world's first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. Imagine - 20 million people joining together to seek increased protections for the planet on which we all live. It was an impressive start to what is now an annual observance.

Earth Day activities and information focus on a wide array of environmental work. One area that deserves particular attention is the widespread practice of using chemical fertilizers to grow our food.

Large corporate food producers across the United States destroy our soil with these fertilizers, which are also known to contaminate the water supply and contribute to global warming.

The Just Food Initiative of the Fox Valley, a nonprofit organization committed to building sustainable and just food systems, believes this is an inequitable way to produce food and instead advocates for restorative soil practices often implemented by smaller farms.

These smaller farms tend to operate locally, providing fresher food to buyers. They do not ship food thousands of miles away, which reduces the air pollution that comes with transporting goods.

Take time to research where your food comes from, particularly your fruits and vegetables. You might just realize you can better support farms that use truly sustainable practices while also supporting our planet.

M. Grace Grzanek, Founder and Executive Director

The Just Food Initiative of the Fox Valley