Discover four budget-friendly methods to shop sustainably
BEING an environmentally conscious shopper may sound like it could be hard work, especially now, when all of us want to get in and out of a shop as quick and safely as possible. But even a few simple tweaks to your weekly shop will immediately improve your carbon footprint without having to spend a fortune. Here are some tips from Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi, for sustainable shopping on a budget...
Fruit and vegetables can often be cheaper – and tastier – if they are in season, as there is simply more of them available. Buying local produce or food which originated in the UK will also help to support UK-based farmers and help cut “food miles” – the distance the food has travelled to get to your plate. Over the summer months, for example, you may find local food suppliers are stocked up with plenty of beetroot, kale and sweetcorn. It’s a good idea to research recipes in advance to inspire you.
A great way of saving money is to eat everything you buy, as it’s estimated that households throw away one-fifth of all the food bought every week. Be wary of “multi-buy” deals that might lead you to buy more than you actually need.
Buying in bulk and cooking up meals that can be frozen and consumed at a later date is an easy way to make the food you buy go further and reduces the chance of having to throw away anything unused. Research some budget-friendly recipes to help you revive any leftovers.
By choosing seafood with the MSC’s blue fish label you are supporting sustainable fisheries and helping to ensure fish stocks and habitats are healthy and fishing community livelihoods are secure.
Many shoppers will look for crueltyfree cosmetics and toiletries, but household cleaning products may also be tested on animals. Cruelty Free International awards its gold standard “leaping bunny” certification across household cosmetics and toiletries.