Embracing Sustainable Food
Insights from Harriet Bell of Riverford Organic Farmers
Last week, I had the privilege of attending a captivating talk by Harriet Bell from Riverford Organic Farmers. Her passion for sustainable living was palpable, as she shared insights into Riverford's successes, the challenges facing farmers, and the urgent need for change in our food supply chain. Harriet's presentation was not only informative but also thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Harriet's message was clear: our current food supply chain is unsustainable. In order to build resilience into our food supplies, she emphasized the importance of buying from local producers or from ethical options like Riverford, rather than relying on supermarkets. This stark warning highlights the need for conscious consumer choices to support sustainable agriculture and local communities.
Throughout her talk, Harriet touched on a multitude of topics, including the challenges of eliminating peat from commercial farming and the superior standards of animal welfare in organic farming. One particularly intriguing revelation was the complexity of the science behind the nutritional value of organic food. While evidence suggests that organic food offers superior nutrition, the exact reasons remain elusive. Harriet proposed a fascinating theory that the presence of pests prompts plants to produce additional beneficial substances, enhancing their nutritional value—a notion that challenges conventional perceptions of pests in our gardens.
It was heartening to see representation from other churches in attendance at the talk. It underscores the importance of spreading awareness and fostering dialogue about sustainable living and LiveSimply beyond our immediate circles.
Following Harriet's talk, a representative from We Act highlighted various initiatives where community involvement is crucial. Opportunities ranged from volunteering as drivers for FareShare Surrey and Community Fridges to lending a hand with gardening for Incredible Edible in Ryden's Way. Additionally, We Act emphasized the importance of donating surplus food, such as excess produce from allotments and garden fruit trees, to prevent waste and support those in need.
As I reflect on Harriet's inspiring presentation and the call to action from We Act, I am reminded of the power of collective effort in driving positive change. Each of us has a role to play in promoting sustainability and supporting local communities. By making conscious choices about where we source our food and contributing to initiatives that address food insecurity and waste, we can create a more resilient and equitable future for all. Let us heed Harriet's advice and embrace sustainable living in all aspects of our lives.