Food miles (or food kilometres) describe the distance that food is transported as it travels from producer to consumer. In the UK, our food travels an amazing 30 billion kilometres each year. This includes imports by boat and air, and transport by lorries and cars. Food transport is responsible for the UK adding nearly 19 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) to the atmosphere each year. Over 2 million tonnes of this is produced simply by cars travelling to and from shops.
Choosing food that is local and in season means it does not have to travel so far. Reducing food miles can have a dramatic effect on reducing carbon dioxide emissions and helping the environment.