There are several reasons why people choose to purchase and eat the food they do. Typically, taste, cost, and availability are at the top. But one factor gaining momentum is taking care of the place our food comes from – the Earth and our agricultural practices through sustainable eating. Evidence suggests that shifting food-related behaviors and purchasing patterns over time may protect the Earth and simultaneously result in overall improved human health outcomes.  

To address this educational gap with consumers, the Greenup County Extension Office hosted the one-time program titled Sustainable Kentucky. This program was developed to educate consumers about what sustainable eating is and practical strategies that can be made when purchasing food that is beneficial for both environmental and human health. Ten people participated in the workshop partnered with the Greenup County Farmers Market to increase participation in the Thursday market. 

Of those who participated and were surveyed, 100% indicated they had a better understanding of “sustainable eating” compared to before the program. 100% stated they increased their ability to explain how the current food system impacts human and environmental health and how they are related. 85% reported they had a better understanding of what strategies could be implemented to make their diet healthier and more sustainable. Further, 100% expressed the intention to eat seasonally and locally to support farmers and growers in their community and reduce the transportation distance for the food brought into their home. 85% expressed their intention to evaluate their grocery shopping purchases with the goal of reducing food packaging. Finally, 100% expressed their intention to rethink meal preparation with the goal of reducing food waste.