In our fast-paced lives, many of us rely on supermarkets for convenience, often losing touch with the origins of our food. This convenience, however, comes at a cost: food production is a leading contributor to climate change, responsible for 60% of global wildlife and biodiversity loss.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Making small, conscious choices—like buying locally-produced food and eating seasonal produce—can significantly benefit the planet. Experts recommend eating less, but better-quality, meat and increasing plant-based foods in our diets. High-quality meats, such as locally-produced organic, free-range, or grass-fed options, are more sustainable and humane than those produced on industrial mega-farms.
Industrial farming consumes massive resources, including energy, water, and animal feed. Many feeds contain palm products sourced from places like Indonesia, where palm plantations destroy habitats for iconic wildlife like orangutans and elephants. Factory farms, where two-thirds of the world’s 70 billion farm animals are raised, also cause immense animal suffering.
The Impact on Nature and Soil
Monoculture farming, which focuses on single crops, relies on artificial fertilizers and pesticides that harm pollinators like bees and butterflies. The UK has lost 10 million farmland birds since 1979, with declines accelerating during the switch to intensive farming. Worse still, the UN warns that, without urgent action, soil degradation from intensive farming could leave the world’s soils unusable within decades.
Support Local, Sustainable Farming
In St Mary Bourne, we are fortunate to have nearby farms practicing traditional, sustainable methods. These farms prioritize soil health, animal welfare, and biodiversity, offering high-quality produce that supports both the planet and our local economy:
- Bere Mill Farm Butchery and Shop in Whitchurch produces free-range, pasture-fed beef, lamb, and hogget butchered and sold onsite. Visit Bere Mill Farm
- Oaktrack Smallholding in Charlton, Andover, raises rare-breed livestock free to roam outdoors, offering meat, seasonal produce, herbs, and flowers. Learn More at Oaktrack
- Greenfield Pork Products in Anna Valley specializes in free-range pork, bacon, and sausages sold at their farm shop. Explore Greenfield Pork
- Harroway Organic Gardens in Whitchurch offers a wide range of organic fruits and vegetables, plus delivery boxes of seasonal produce. Discover Harroway Organics
- Bourne Valley Pick Your Own in St Mary Bourne lets you pick seasonal fruits and vegetables or purchase them in their farm shop. Visit Bourne Valley PYO
You can also explore more local food options on the Hampshire Fare website.
