Now is a good time to grow local food!

As COVID-19 spreads havoc across the world we are seeing its impact on people’s health and wellbeing and our thoughts are with those who have been impacted directly by the virus. In addition to health impacts we are also seeing significant social and economic impacts across the world with businesses closing, high unemployment, social unrest and food shortages. Whilst we have always viewed the food chain as vulnerable, it’s times like these that we see first-hand how dependent many of our countries are on outside food resources. This is especially the case when we see how quickly supermarket shelves can empty and the long delays in sourcing new supplies. In these unprecedented times we are seeing supply chains interrupted, delays in retailers being able to restock commonly used and high demand food items and the slowing of imports and exports. All of this is contributing to food insecurity.

With numerous countries in lockdown and social isolation restrictions in place, many people’s lifestyle and daily activities have changed and as a result many are wanting to start growing their own food or increase existing production. At Grow Dynamix, we have always advocated for local and homegrown foods. Growing our own foods not only provides us with food security in unprecedented times such as this but it also offers numerous other benefits such as reducing weekly grocery bills, increasing the amount of organic foods into our diets and the positive impact that food gardening has on both our physical and mental health. Food growing is a worthwhile activity to take up in times such as these.

Anyone can be involved in local food production. Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony you can grow food, either in the ground, in raised beds or in pots. If you don’t have any space to grow food then there is always the opportunity to be involved in growing food in local schools and community gardens, many community gardens are on the lookout for reliable volunteers. So, if you are wondering what to do with your time whilst in isolation or as our countries rebuild economies, we reckon that now is a good time to get involved in growing local food.

NB: Empty supermarket photos taken in Hobart, Australia, March 2020.