Foodie In Florence: How Big is Your Foot?

When talking about how sustainable we are, I know almost everyone thinks about their carbon footprint. With talk of carbon footprints usually comes discussions on climate change and it's all down hill from there...

There is another footprint we can analyze that won't strike up such a heated debate. This footprint involves our water use. With all the hooplah about climate change and fossil fuel use we almost never think about water as a precious resource that we're depleting. One of the main reasons is agriculture. Yes, agriculture. Even organic agriculture! Who knew? How much water we use is directly related to us as consumers too (surprised?) Just like buying local and organic helps us be more sustainable and healthier for the environment, the same goes for our water use.

Buying local fruits and veggies from a small scale farm doesn't use as nearly as much water as those producing tons (literally) of produce and certainly isn't polluting any water from mass use of pesticides. The sustainable cycle continues with water.  

Here's a way to check how big your foot is (I like the one by National Geographic):

http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater/water-f...

Of course there's so many different ways we can be greener but if we stick in the realm of food and agriculture then I think we'll all find more success. After calculating your water footprint you'll realize how important it is to stick with organic and local produce. The bonus? Your carbon footprint will be shrinking too, and your water bill! 

Buon Appetito!