We are a nation of shoppers, bombarded daily by advertising, new and increasingly complex products and a culture of consumerism. It's easy to forget that the products we buy have enormous environmental impacts.

It's good to reflect on exactly what we buy - for example, do you really need that mobile upgrade or that four-speed juicing machine? You can use your purchasing power by making a few small changes to your shopping habits that can have an impact. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune; taking used plastic carrier bags with you when you go shopping has a positive impact and is free. In season, locally grown produce can be cheaper than the imported equivalents and supports your local economy, as well as helping to cut down on pollution.

When you see strawberries in winter you know they weren't grown locally. As nice as it might seem to have your favourite fruit all year round, it is damaging to the environment  due to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. Choose fruit and vegetables that are in season and preferably grown locally. An easy way to ensure you buy seasonal and local food is to sign up for a vegetable box scheme. There are over 200 organic box schemes in the UK that can give you a regular delivery of locally grown vegetables of your choice. The list below details British fruit and vegetables and when they are in season.