You know we’re all about supporting our local businesses in the 608, which is why we’re excited for Earth Day this Fri., April 22. 🌎

This year's Earth Day initiative is centered around investing in our planet — and there are lots of ways buying locally supports sustainability. To promote this goal within our community, we are introducing you to our #BuyLocalBuyGreen608 campaign.

To celebrate the global initiative, we are challenging you — and ourselves — to only shop locally for one week. Or, at least try to swap out a few basic purchases with local options.

What would this look like? Think: Starting your morning with a trip to Fair Trade Coffee House, stopping by the Dane County Farmers’ Market for local produce, or perusing home goods at Good Day Shop.

We want to follow along with your journey, as well as share ours with you. To do so, we are asking you to share photos of your local purchases, shopping sprees, or other Earth Day activities on social media using the hashtag #BuyLocalBuyGreen608. Throughout the week, we will spotlight what our community is up to in our newsletters + social feeds.

Don’t have social media but want to participate? Send us your photos via email.

Need some inspiration? Here are some local, sustainable recommendations to switch up your weekly routine.

We don’t know about you, but we’ll be starting our days with a local caffeine boost. Audrey plans to pick up the Spring Seasonal: Early Bird blend from Just Coffee Cooperative + sit outside and enjoy the warm weather.

Ryan just cleaned out his closet for spring, and can’t wait to pop into Good Style Shop to check out vintage + gently-used items.

Fridge running low? Head out to Willy Street Co-op to grab some local produce, or West Side Farmers Market to pick up rhubarb or arugula. If you’re looking to celebrate at home, we recommend picking up cheese curds from Mineral Point-based Hook's Cheese Company and a six-pack from the MOSA certified Giant Jones Brewing Company — available here.

If you’re looking to skip the meal prep, grab a meal kit from Pasture and Plenty or check out Heritage Tavern, a farm-to-table restaurant sourcing pork products for Madison area restaurants.

Whatever you choose, remember to share your stories + tag #BuyLocalBuyGreen608 for a chance to be featured.