You’re running on fumes and need a pick-me-up. And there it is, in the distance – Warren Towers Starbucks. The overpriced caffeine penetrates your bloodstream and with relief comes an unshakable feeling of shame for not buying local. This is obviously a highly dramatized account, but I think we could all (myself included) do a bit better at shopping local.
Why shop local? Great question. There are several answers. On a basic level shopping local is a great way to not only support the community but also to get to know people you may not interact with on a regular basis. Making intentional choices about where to put your money can help stimulate the local economy and therefore keep more of your dollars within the community. Food that is sourced locally is more “green.” There is less travel time between where the food is grown and sold. Eating seasonally is also cheaper and arguably more delicious. (Which is great for those of us trying to save wherever we can!)
A few suggestions around BU:
Pavement Coffeehouse
736 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Local coffee shop in Boston with multiple locations, one being right on campus. Fills up quickly but is a great place to meet friends and professors between classes. Quality coffee and tea plus yummy bagels, too.
Taqueria El Barrio
1022 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Quick counter-service Mexican restaurant. Really delicious and authentic tacos among other dishes.
Farmers Market
775 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Held at George Sherman Union Plaza on Thursdays from September 5 to October 24. This is a fantastic and convenient way to buy from local vendors who care about sustainability. Select vendors sell unique art, as well.
The Goodwill Store
965 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Well not exactly a “local business” per se, going thrifting is a sustainable way to be a fashionista without hurting the environment. This Goodwill is a prime donation spot for BU students, so you can actually take home some really great finds for little cost.
This is obviously not a comprehensive list. Just a few of my favorites. ☺
Feel free to reach out with any questions! My email is: jsoule@bu.edu
