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How can I use supermarkets less?

Supermarkets are responsible for many different problems which affect the environment but also local economies and jobs too.

They have a serious impact on independent shops. 2,000 independent stores went out of business in the last year alone.

Supermarkets stock very little locally produced food, so the money they make doesn't go back into the local economy. Furthermore, food is sourced from around the world causing transport problems and adding to the effects of climate change.

For more information see our briefings on environmental and community impacts of supermarkets (PDF†)

The recent growth in farmers' markets - places where local producers sell directly to local people - means a better deal for farmers and consumers alike.

But what if there isn't a farmer's market or local store in your area. You can still make a difference by shopping wisely.

Look out for Fair Trade goods in supermarkets - buying these supports small farmers in the developing world, rather than adding to multinational corporations' profits.

Another way to be sure of how your food is produced is to grow it yourself. This will give you fresh, unpackaged, chemical-free food without clocking up any food miles. For advice on growing your own see the Henry Doubleday Research Association (HDRA)'s Grow Your Own pages:

There may well be a scheme for regular delivery of organic produce near to you.

†To view PDF files you will need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader. Visually impaired users can get extra help with these documents from access.adobe.com.

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Campaigns: Real Food
Links: FairTrade Foundation, Henry Doubleday Research Association, National Association of Farmers Markets, Ethical Consumer Research Association
Briefings: Checking out the environment(PDF†), Good neighbours? Community impacts of supermarkets(PDF†)

Last modified
Content: Apr 2005