Transform Your Impact: How Simplifying Grocery Shopping Can Be Your Easiest Climate Action

Media Release

Every September, Australians celebrate Biodiversity Month. It’s a time to think about our ecosystems, from wildlife to soil and water. When we think of helping the environment, we often picture planting trees or cutting down on plastic. But there’s something else we can do: look at our food choices.

Did you know food systems are responsible for about a third of global greenhouse gas emissions? They also contribute to biodiversity loss and pollution. In Australia, our food travels long distances, often wrapped in plastic. This impacts our environment significantly.

In response, many Australians are now choosing local, community-driven grocery models. One such initiative is Box Divvy. There are over 330 food hubs across New South Wales and the ACT connected through this network, benefiting around 15,000 households. Members can order seasonal produce and pantry staples through an app, directly from local farmers and ethical suppliers.

“Food is where the environment, economy, and community all come together,” says Jayne Travers-Drapes, co-founder of Box Divvy. “What we choose to buy each week really matters.”

Box Divvy simplifies shopping. Members order online, and local coordinators pack their groceries—often right from their homes. This approach reduces packaging waste, avoids over-supply, and keeps transportation efficient.

Unlike traditional grocery chains, where food often sits in warehouses, much of Box Divvy’s produce is harvested within 48 hours of delivery. Most comes from farms just a short distance away in Sydney and regional NSW. This means fresher food and fewer food miles.

Food waste is a big issue in Australia, with households throwing away about 312 kilograms of food each year. This often happens due to overbuying or confusion over expiry dates. By planning meals and pre-ordering, people can avoid waste and reconnect with their food sources.

Box Divvy also supports small Australian farmers by ensuring fair pricing. Members can see what farmers earn and choose what goes into their weekly boxes, based on what’s in season and what they can afford.

Philippa Robinson from Shellharbour runs her local Box Divvy hub and sees the positive change it brings. She says, “Living low-impact is about progress, not perfection. With Box Divvy, I get fresher food that lasts longer. I waste less and save money while knowing I’m supporting local farmers.”

This feeling is shared by many members throughout NSW and the ACT, reflecting a broader desire for practical steps toward tackling climate issues.

“It’s not just about saving money or eating better,” says Travers-Drapes. “People want to live simply and align their actions with their values.”

5 Ways to Eat for the Planet

• Eat seasonally – This helps cut down on storage and transport needs.
• Support local – Buying locally reduces emissions and supports Aussie farmers.
• Reduce plastic – Opt for unpackaged items when possible.
• Plan your shopping – Pre-ordering helps cut down food waste.
• Know your source – Encourage fair pay for farmers by understanding supply chains.

Low-Impact Products Worth Considering

Box Divvy encourages shoppers to ask important questions about their purchases: Where do they come from? How are they made? Here are a few products reflecting these values:

• Clover Field Shampoo & Conditioner Bars – Each bar replaces 4-6 plastic bottles, which helps reduce waste.
• Ecokaps Cleaning Tablets & Laundry Sheets – Plastic-free refills help keep waste from piling up.
• About A Dog Toilet Paper – Made from 100% recycled materials, avoiding virgin pulp that harms forests.
• Marine-Grade Steel Clothes Pegs – Durable and rust-resistant, these pegs can last a lifetime.

As we celebrate Biodiversity Month, let’s remember the impact of our everyday choices. Supporting local food systems is one simple way to contribute to a healthier planet.

For more information on food waste and its effects, check out the government report on food waste at dcceew.gov.au.

Learn more about Box Divvy at www.boxdivvy.com.

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