We don’t have an extra planet – so we must buy local

One Planet Worcester, founded in March 2008, is concerned that humans are using up the Earth’s resources as if there was another planet for us to use when this one is gone.

Members, who are encouraging people to stand up against today’s environmental challenges, believe the simplest way to reduce consumption is to produce locally.

Robert Wilkins, of the One Planet Worcester steering group, said: “If we went back 300 years, much of the food we ate would have been produced locally, within 20 or 30 miles. It would have been organic. It would have been seasonal.

“With cheap oil we’ve got used to having food from all over the world. The impact of such consumerism has been phenomenal and, for many people, is only just coming into focus.”

One Planet Worcester wants more people to know about peak oil, an issue Mr Wilkins said is as important as climate change.

Peak oil is the point when global production of oil reaches maximum, and then begins to fall into terminal decline.

Green campaigners, pointing at modern society’s dependence on oil, claim the effects could be catastrophic and far reaching - if we do not act now. Some have estimated peak oil will occur in 2020, others suggest it has already happened.

“Whenever it happens our way of life will change dramatically, without doubt,” said Mr Wilkins.

“In a relatively short period of time oil prices would rise and keep on rising as reserves run out. That alone will have a huge impact on the way we travel, eat, educate our children.

“The implications are broad and the production of food is just one way people can respond.”

One Planet Worcester is not the only group challenging people to use a fair share of the Earth’s natural resources.

Slow Food Worcestershire is part of a worldwide movement to put the pleasure back into eating, by developing strong links with local producers.

Backing our Buy Local campaign, Worcestershire leader Don Barton said: “Without a strong network of local food producers developing distinctive, tasty ingredients, with care for both production and the environment, many of the great flavours of Worcestershire will be lost. “Supporting local producers ensures that the unique regional differences and traditions in our food culture are maintained. “Unfortunately, the standardisation approach of the supermarkets means that many people are becoming further detached from understanding where their food comes from.

“Slow Food Worcestershire encourages everyone to seek out, meet and support local producers and the high quality food and drinks they produce."

For more information visit oneplanetworcester.org.uk and slowfoodworcestershire.org.uk.

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