Food for Thought: How Your Food Choices Impact the Planet

By: Delphine Dall’Agata, Greenheart Exchange Marketing and Outreach Intern

Do you ever wonder how you can make a difference in protecting our Earth? This blog series offers simple solutions to lower your carbon footprint and live green. Let’s put the “green” in Greenheart!

This week’s theme is all about food! Your food choices impact not only your health but also the well-being of the planet. These four tips will have you feeling great while also conserving the earth’s natural resources. It’s time to eat our (Green)hearts out!

1. Meatless Mondays: According to recent studies, meat production and consumption account for over 50% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Adopting a plant-based diet just once a week would significantly reduce the amount of feed grown for livestock, the gallons of water used in production, and the fossil fuels utilized for transportation. Take this opportunity to try new recipes and discover how tasty veggies can be!
2. Eat Local: The average American meal travels about 1,500 miles from farm to plate. Choosing produce from nearby farmers fuels the local economy, while also reducing emissions from transportation. Be sure to check out the origin of your food and select local products when possible. Farmers’ markets are a great way to engage with your community and support this cause!

4. Grow a Garden: The best way to engage with the local agriculture movement is to grow your own food! Whether it is a garden in your backyard or a small plant box in your apartment, each initiative makes a difference. Rekindle a connection with what you eat as you sow the seeds of the future!
5. Shop in Style: Plastic bags release toxic chemicals into the soil and waterways harming natural resources, wildlife, and humans. It’s time to get rid of them once and for all! When going grocery shopping, don’t forget to bring your reusable canvas bags and minimize the damage plastic is causing.

Opting to try one, two, or even all four of these suggestions will make an impact on the current food chain – every little bit helps. Check out Sustainable Table to read about current sustainable food initiatives. So pull up a chair and bon appétit!

Committed to guaranteeing a sustainable future? Check out how Greenheart International’s programs promote environmentalism through cultural exchange!