Processed foods have a greater ecological footprint than their raw or unprocessed equivalent. For example think apple versus the extra resources used for a can of apples.

Look for “Product of Australia” labels as these products must have each significant ingredient or component sourced in Australia and all, or virtually all of the production processes taken place in Australia. Labels saying “Made in Australia” must be substantially transformed in Australia, but may contain ingredients or components from overseas.

Over-fishing and harmful fishing practices are a major threat to most of the world’s aquatic ecosystems. As consumers, we can influence these practices by purchasing sustainable seafood. Visit The Australian Marine Conservation Society at www.amcs.org.au for more information.

When shopping for food, try to avoid packaging or look for packaging that is less resource intensive. Some foods have their own packaging!

Animal products make up the biggest single part of the typical Australian’s ecological footprint at 34%. Supporting local, organic animal products is better for people, the environment and the animals themselves and include a few vegetarian meals a week.

Growing your own food saves food miles and allows you to control pesticide use. It also avoids waste as you only pick what you need! Approximately one quarter of the nation’s food supplies are thrown away, before they are used - mainly because we purchase too much. About 1kg of greenhouse gases can be saved for each kilogram of food waste avoided. Visit Food Wise and Love Food, Hate Waste for tips on reducing food waste. Many of our local enterprises are involved in growing food.

If we purchase a lemon in summer or a nectarine in winter, it most likely has travelled from the other side of the world! Seasonal food tends to be cheaper, are often sourced locally and therefore minimise food miles.

Certified Organic products are grown and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, fertilisers, or Genetically Modifed Organisms (GMO’s). Many commercial pesticides and fertilisers are petroleum based and therefore have a much higher ecological footprint. Visit www.ofa.org.au for more information.

“Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers” (FTAANZ 2007). Visit www.fairtrade.com.au for more information.

The Sydney Food Fairness Alliance (SFFA) encourages government, communities and business to work together to ensure access to affordable healthy food by everyone; increase public knowledge about a healthy and productive agriculture in the Sydney Basin; educate people about a wide range of foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, for good health; and allow people to enjoy seasonal, quality food from the region. Leichhardt Council is a member of the SFFA. Visit www.sydneyfoodfairness.org.au for more information.