Which is the most sustainable option -- buying local produce or buying organic food? Some say buying local produce is greener because of all the freighting emissions that are avoided. Some say purchasing organic food has more impact because of all the fertilizers and pesticides that weren't used in the growing process. 

So which is best? Well, they're both great options that reduce our destructive impact on the environment. So does is really matter which is best as long as we're understanding the implications and choosing according to budget and personal beliefs? The important thing is that everyone chooses one of the two and starts thinking of the impact each dollar we spend has on the economy and on politics. Determine what's more important and realistic for you, then choose. Let's look at the pros and cons of each option:

Buying Local:

• Freighting emissions and costs are curbed
• You're supporting local farms and businesses
• You might be supporting small local farms that operate 'naturally' if not 'organically' and contribute to maintaining biodiversity in that area.
• Usually the better option on a tight budget
• But make sure it's produced in a way you can support. Buying local GMO's isn't the best!

Buying Organic:

• Environmental impact of fertilizers and pesticides are curbed and not ingested
• Better taste
• Usually a bit more expensive (but don't just rule it out, compare for yourself)
• Farms can be organic but still operate on a huge, monoculture scale that reduces biodiversity

Get into the habit, not just with produce but with each and every purchase you make, of finding out where it was made before you choose your brand. It's clearly marked on every produce price-board and easy to find on all packaging. And when you have the option and the means to buy local, don't think twice! The environmental and economical benifits of buying local make the choice a no-brainer. As with every purchase, weigh your options, decide what's important to you and act.