Change starts with a single person! There are so many ways in which you as an individual can do your part to fight climate change -- especially when it comes to your food choices. BentallGreenOak Residential Services has 5 tips for what you should eat and avoid to support the environment.
Meatless Mondays
If you don't think you can go vegetarian or vegan overnight, start by introducing Meatless Mondays, or skip the meat on any day of the week that works for you. This is a simple change that will make a big difference -- both for the environment and your health. If you're unsure how to start, a bean burger is a fantastic meat alternative that tastes just as good as beef, if not better. Plus, beans are extremely good for you because they are full of fiber, B vitamins and protein! You can also use them in other meals. Try them in soups, salads, dips and snacks!
Avoid Single-Use Plastic
Single-use plastic is a major problem. Things like water bottles, straws and bags are all items that many of us use once and throw away. Be mindful the next time you shop and remember that plastic takes 1000 years to decompose in a landfill. Use produce bags and grocery bags made out of fabric, or reuse a plastic bag from home. Be prepared to shop whenever the mood strikes you by always carrying a small reusable tote in your bag or purse.
Eat More Vegetables, Grains and Legumes
One of the easiest ways to make a difference is to reduce your overall meat consumption by eating more vegetables, grains and legumes. This means replacing your red, white and dark meat with products like tofu, tempeh, seitan (wheat meat), quinoa, buckwheat, beans and mushrooms. You can get a remarkably similar texture with these items and a great taste. Nothing will ever taste exactly like meat, but it can taste better! You just have to give it a try. Check out these recipes for some inspiration.
Eat Seasonal Food
Reduce your carbon footprint by eating more seasonal fruits and vegetables. By making this change you will support local farmers and communities. You will also eat food that has more nutrients. Food that has been shipped on a truck or has sat on a shelf for weeks is generally picked before it has had a chance to fully ripen. When shopping for seasonal food, ugly food is just fine. It's totally normal for fruits and veggies to have bruises, imperfections and a coating of dirt. The flavour will be the same, if not better.
Avoid Coffee Cups
Did you know that coffee cups are not recyclable? Most coffee cups have a layer of wax or plastic on the inside to help with leaks -- which means that they cannot be placed in your recycling bin. So what's the solution? Grab yourself a to-go cup which come in many shapes and sizes. Whether you like a big cup of coffee or a shot of espresso from your local cafe, there is something for everyone.
Remember, your choices matter. With just a few small changes to your lifestyle, you can make a big impact and support the environment. We hope these tips from BentallGreenOak help!
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