We’re halfway through June, and in Ontario that means one wonderful thing: fresh, local produce is back on the table. There’s something truly joyful about stopping at a roadside stand and picking up freshly harvested berries, peas, garlic scapes, or rhubarb. These “first fruits” of summer mark the start of four months of abundance in Southern Ontario.
So why am I prompting your imagination—and your appetite—with thoughts of juicy berries and crisp garden peas?
Because how we source and consume our food has a direct impact on the health of our planet. In fact, food production accounts for one-third of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The good news? Our daily food choices offer an opportunity to be part of the solution.
A “sustainable table” is all about choosing foods and habits that are healthier for both people and the planet. Sustainable foods are generally lower in environmental impact and tend to be more nutritious.
Here are some practical ways you can create a more sustainable table:
- Buy Local
Support nearby farmers and reduce transportation emissions by choosing local produce whenever possible. - Choose Sustainably Grown Foods
Opt for food grown with minimal synthetic pesticides and fertilizers—this promotes healthier soil and ecosystems. - Eat More Renewable, Low-Impact Foods
Foods like oats, beans, lentils, chickpeas, broccoli, mushrooms, avocados, and blueberries are nutrient-rich and environmentally friendly. - Reduce Meat Consumption
Even small shifts, like incorporating meatless meals during the week, can lower your carbon footprint. - Cut Down on Food Waste
Plan meals, use leftovers creatively, and store food properly to reduce waste and conserve resources. - Choose Sustainable Packaging
Support products with minimal, recyclable, or compostable packaging to reduce landfill waste. - Manage Food Waste Responsibly
Composting or using anaerobic digestion reduces landfill contributions and returns nutrients to the soil.
And that last point is where we come in. At Davidson Environmental, we help businesses divert organic waste from landfills by collecting and processing it to create clean biogas and compost—a truly circular solution. We are here to help you become more sustainable and to reduce your environmental footprint. To get more information contact us or check out our services.