Food
Food is responsible, worldwide, for around 30% of greenhouse gas emissions, 60% of forest and biodiversity loss, and 70% of all freshwater removed from rivers and lakes. These numbers are predicted to grow if we don’t take action.
Here are the 6 key steps that we can all take
These tips are fully researched, measured and recommended by the world’s top climate experts.
1: Eat more plants
Let’s focus on vegetables, beans and nuts. This is all about adding choice and flavour to our diets. Take inspiration from China and Malaysia, where much of the food is plant-based. Also, the Mediterranean has much variety; from delicious salads and vegetable-based stews, to tagines, pasta and rice dishes. The bottom line: plants can be full of flavour too.
2: Eat a variety of food
This is all about expanding our taste horizons. Currently too many people rely on the same dishes and same core ingredients, for example, chicken. By having a colourful plate we will be ensuring a more nutritious, natural, flavourful and exciting meal.
3: Waste less food
When we throw away food we are throwing away natural resources and money. The average household wastes around 30% of the food it buys – that’s like taking £100 out of the bank and putting £30 straight into the bin!
4: Moderate your meat
This covers both red and white meat. Due to a new trend, the most popular meat today is chicken, with most people eating it every day. Eating less chicken does not mean we will go without protein, as it’s found in many plant sources. It’s just up to us to expand our horizons and try new foods.
5: Buy food that meets a credible certified standard
This is important, if a little tricky. We have to become more aware of what’s on the packaging of the food we buy. There are various standards you can find on food packets that make sure our food is sourced and produced sustainably. Logos to look out for next time you’re shopping include Fairtrade (protecting farmers and workers in developing countries), Freedom Food (animal welfare), MSC and ASC (seafood), and RSPO (palm oil).
6: Eat fewer foods high in fat, sugar and salt
This is plain old common sense in terms of our personal health, but also processed junk foods have a high impact on our planet too. We just need to eat smaller amounts or eat them less often. These should be seen as treats, not staples.
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