As environmental concerns continue to grow, more people are adopting eco-friendly practices, including when it comes to grocery shopping. Choosing sustainable products and reducing waste can significantly lower your environmental footprint. From the food you purchase to the packaging it comes in, every decision has an impact. Eco-friendly grocery shopping is about making conscious choices that benefit both your health and the planet.

One of the most effective ways to practice eco-friendly shopping is by reducing plastic use. Many grocery stores offer reusable bags, which help cut down on the amount of single-use plastic that ends up in landfills. In addition, opting for items with minimal or recyclable packaging can help reduce your overall waste. Choosing products that are packaged in glass or cardboard instead of plastic can contribute to a more sustainable shopping experience.

Another important aspect of eco-friendly grocery shopping is buying local and seasonal produce. Supporting local farmers and markets not only helps reduce the carbon footprint of transportation but also promotes sustainability in the agriculture industry. Seasonal produce is fresher and requires fewer resources to grow, making it a more eco-friendly option. By choosing to shop in season, you’re supporting both the environment and your local economy.

In conclusion, eco-friendly grocery shopping is a small but impactful step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. By reducing plastic waste, supporting local farmers, and making mindful purchasing choices, you can make a positive difference for both the environment and your health.

VIEWPOINT QUESTIONS
Respond to the following questions. Refer back to the reading if needed.

1. “Cut down on” means to reduce something. How does this idiom apply to reducing plastic waste when shopping for groceries?

2. “Shop in season” refers to purchasing produce that’s in season. How does this idiom relate to buying eco-friendly groceries?

3. “Make a difference” means to have a significant impact. How does this idiom reflect the positive effect of eco-friendly grocery shopping?

HOW WOULD YOU RESPOND

1. How would you respond if a friend told you they wanted to start shopping more sustainably but didn’t know where to begin?

2. How would you respond if you found out that your favorite grocery store was using excessive plastic packaging?

3. How would you respond if someone told you that buying locally grown produce wasn’t worth the extra cost?

REAL LIFE SCENARIO

You’ve decided to adopt eco-friendly grocery shopping habits but want to start with small changes.

• How would you respond?

• What steps would you take to reduce waste and support sustainable practices while shopping for groceries?