Why does is it matter where I shop?

• Fact: Did you know that only about 33.6% of the revenue from national chains is reinvested into the community, while approximately 64.8% of the revenue from local businesses gets reinvested into the local community? For the month of October, Walking Mountains is highlighting the benefits of thinking local for our environment, our economy, and our community.

  source: http://www.loyaltolocal.com/why-local/

  
  

  
   

  Three Tips For What You Can Do:

  • Buy local. In addition to an increased investment in the local community, locally owned businesses buy more local products which means less transportation and a reduced environmental impact. Also, small local businesses are the largest employer in the country, shopping locally helps create jobs and sustain livelihoods. Furthermore, local businesses are an intrinsic part of our community’s character and what makes it unique.

    • sources: https://sustainableconnections.org/why-buy-local/
    • https://www.huffingtonpost.com/kristie-arslan/five-big-myths-about-amer_b_866118.html
  
  

  • Look for Actively Green businesses. Actively Green is a sustainable business training and certification program that helps local businesses be environmental, economic, and social leaders in our community. There are more than 50 Actively Green sustainable businesses in Eagle County so let them know that you appreciate their commitment to our local environment and community. To see a list of all current Actively Green businesses visit https://www.walkingmountains.org/actively-green-certified-businesses/.

  
  

  • Do not forget our farmers. Market season is not over yet and buying local food is a great way to support the local economy, increase the taste and nutrition of your plate, and reduce the environmental impacts of transportation.