Two and a half years ago, Hafez Alsaidi’s father started the Berkeley Organic Market and Deli with the philosophy of providing the best possible products for customers. Alsaidi, now the manager of the store, strives to keep Berkeley residents healthy through sustainable measures.
In 2006, Berkeley residents voted to reduce the community’s greenhouse gas emissions by 80% before 2050. By 2018, the city of Berkeley reduced 26% of greenhouse gas emissions and signed a natural gas ban in 2019.
UC Berkeley sophomore Lucy Zhang believes the natural gas ban will economically impact businesses in Berkeley. Since natural gas is relatively cheap, according to an email from Zhang, business’ operating costs will increase. Alsaidi also noted that the price differences between sustainable products and less environmentally-friendly goods are significant.