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Farmers' market
A farmers' market, sometimes called a greenmarket, is usually held out-of-doors, in public spaces, where local farmers and artisans can sell produce and local products to the public. Farmers' markets help urban communities support local farmers, consume fresher produce, and reduce the transportation required. Because of this, establishing farmers' markets has been an important goal for developing sustainable urban communities.
Regional Economy
Purchasing food from local farmers supports the local economy and helps farmers to retain their livelihood. Working farms are valued as a local open-space resource providing a natural and logical urban boundary, helping to contain urban sprawl.
Environment
Farmers' markets provide products with lower emboddied energy. By reducing the distance food travels, fossil fuel useage is lower and fewer greenhouse gases are released. On average, an American meal travels 1,500 miles to reach the dinner table. Farmers' markets also avoid some of the costly and energy-consuming packaging found in most stores. Many farmers' markets are accessible by foot or bicycle, providing another way to reduce the consumer's carbon footprint.[1]
Health
An important study shows vouchers distributed to low-income residents to shop at a local farmers’ market increases fruit and vegetable consumption in poor families[2]. In the study, women told researchers that the produce sold at markets seemed to be fresher and of higher quality than supermarket offerings. Many shoppers also said they enjoyed the pleasant community experience and the chance to interact directly with growers[3].
ALSO ON THE LIVABLE STREETS NETWORK
REFERENCES
Each source is referred to by the same number every time it is cited. Please keep citation style consistent.
[1] Local food: Good for you, your community and the environment. Minneapolis Sustainability, City of Minneapolis.
[2] Herman, D.R. et al. 2008. Effect of a targeted subsidy on intake of fruits and vegetables among low-income women in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. American Journal of Public Health. 98(1):98-105.
[3 ]Parker-Pope, Tara. The Farmers’ Market Effect, New York Times, Jan 15, 2008.
[4]
PICTURE REFERENCES
Pictures are cited in the order they appear above. Please keep citation style consistent.
[1] South Bronx Greenmarket on the Grand Concourse, Photo by Susan Donovan
[2]
FURTHER READING
- CENYC - New York City Greenmarkets Greenmarket has run and managed farmer's markets throughout Manhattan and the boroughs since 1976.
- Healthy Eating, International City Managers Association. 2009.
