Sustainable Living in South San Clemente

Living in a environmentally responsible way is difficult; especially in Southern California. To the contrary of belief, most people here are too busy to take the time to eat well. Processed food fits so well into that busy Southern California lifestyle.

After much research in late 2007, our family has decided to become responsible in our eating habits. Responsible to our children, our neighbors and our environment. Our goals are simple:

1. Eat natural produce.
2. Eat local.

In our journey, we found it very difficult, as the industrial distribution system doesn't efficiently cater to these needs. Although there are niche grocers catering to this market, Wholefoods and Henry's still average 20 miles away from us. It doesn't compare to the mileage their food travelled: garlic from China, apples from Chile, Cheddar from New Zealand, etc...

The solutions:

Produce: San Clemente's Farmers Market, Tierra Miguel Farms, South Coast Farm and my garden.
Meats: Trader Joe's (for right now) Wholefoods/Henry's (if convenient).
Raw Milk: Organic Pasture's buying club.

....and the dream, the San Clemente Community Market, a Cooperative!