We need to lay the foundations on which to build a sustainable and food secure planet. In a world where our food security is threatened, environmentally (through land clearing and climate change), politically, industrially, economically and agriculturally, it benefits all people to be in touch with our local food systems socially, practically and ethically, and to share our resources. We can support growers markets and community gardens, grow our own food, share plants and seeds, and learn to be innovative with local, seasonal food.
Local Growers Markets: Hawkesbury Harvest http://www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au/ and Farm Gate Trails http://www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au/farm-gate-trails/hawkesbury/. Castle Hill Growers Markets http://www.hawkesburyharvest.com.au/markets/castle-hill-farmers-fine-food-market/ Seed Savers Networks and organic growing (Henry Doubleday) http://www.earthcare.org.au/henry-doubleday Hawkesbury Earthcare Centre http://www.earthcare.org.au/ Local Councils can help with information about food programs and community gardens: Hawkesbury Council ph 4560 4444, Hills Shire Council ph: 9843 0555, Further reading in Sydney Food Fairness Alliance (SFFA) http://sydneyfoodfairness.org.au/about/
SUSTAINABLE LIVING
Many people in the 21st century aspire to live happy, healthy, sustainable lives within a resilient community powered by renewable energy such as wind or solar. Lowering our carbon footprint (using less of the Earth’s natural resources and consuming less energy), can be simply achieved by use of public transport instead of cars where possible and eating fresh, local, unprocessed food.. Australia is the second-highest producer of waste per capita in the world. Reducing waste which goes to landfill, through recycling, composting, or simply choosing not to use non-recyclable materials will help to reduce our impact on the environment. It also reduces the amount of raw materials necessary to create new consumer goods. We can improve energy efficiency in our homes by installing insulation, LED lights and skylights, growing our own food where possible and installing water tanks to conserve water. Installing solar systems for hot water and electricity generation also greatly reduces energy usage and bills. Check the energy rating on appliances and buy those rated 4 stars or higher. More details and contacts at link: http://sustainablelivingguide.com.au/
Support HEN’s initiative for a community renewable energy cooperative which will benefit all residents of the Hawkesbury. One in seven Australians lives below the poverty line. Charities are reporting an increased demand for emergency food supplies. We need to improve food security for vulnerable groups. see www.foodbank.org.au who are working to distribute excess food to hungry people. Hawkesbury Community Kitchen at 38a Macquarie Street Windsor can provide homeless and food-insecure residents with a meal. ph: 4577 5203.