Earth Day, Every Day

Happy Earth Month! Despite ongoing concerns about climate change, there's a positive trend towards more environmentally conscious consumer choices. This April—and beyond—we’re here to help you make shopping decisions that reflect your commitment to sustainability and the well-being of our planet.

Here’s how shopping with the notion that you really can make a difference allows you to take an “Earth Day, Every Day” approach. 

1. Bring Reusable Shopping Bags
For every reusable shopping bag you use, one less plastic shopping bag leaves the store. Meaning one less plastic bag ending up in a landfill or our oceans. If you’re worried about leaving home without your reusable shopping bags, we recommend an easy solution: keep them in the trunk of your vehicle so they are always handy.  

Image Source: Davis IGA, Kent, CT

2. Buy Locally Sourced Whenever Possible
When you’re strolling the produce aisles, look for fruits and vegetables that are in season and grown locally whenever possible. Not only does this reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation, but it also supports American family farmers.

Image Source: Edward's Food Giant,  

3. Look for Recyclable Packaging 
Choosing products packaged in recycled or easily recyclable materials helps reduce your environmental footprint. By opting for items in packaging that can be recycled easily, you support companies dedicated to minimizing waste and closing the loop.

4. Purchase Products That Are Sourced Responsibly and Sustainably 
If you’re looking at packaged goods, many products now carry reputable certifications such as Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, USDA Organic, or Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) that indicate that the product meets specific environmental, social, and ethical standards. 

5. Shop With Your Children and/or Grandchildren
Making thoughtful decisions when you shop sets an example for future generations. If your children or grandchildren want to know why you’re purchasing one product over another, you grant yourself the amazing opportunity to explain why you made the decision you did, and how that decision was made with the environment in mind. Remember, if we can instill our love and our concern for the planet in the next generation, it’s safe to assume they will be more likely to join the cause sooner rather than later. The more people who care, the better, especially because we’re all in this together.  

Let’s Save the Planet—Together 

 At the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA), we take our responsibility to the environment and the planet seriously. That’s why we are dedicated to helping you shop sustainably not just in April but also year-round. Working together, demanding change, and making responsible choices feels like the least we can do. So, let’s do it! If we all play our part, we have a chance to defend our planet from future harm. The clock is ticking, sure, but it’s not too late. 

Let’s continue to act with determination, motivation, and good intentions so our children, grandchildren, and grandchildren can someday thank us for the efforts we showed and the difference we made.