You’ve
heard the phrase; you are what you eat. The food we eat not only affects our
health, but can affect the health of our planet. The agricultural business is
energy intensive. It uses massive amounts of water and energy to produce the
food that we eat. With widespread droughts and threats from climate change, it
is important that we are conscious about our food consumption and the effects
it has on the planet.
Individuals
make changes to their diet every day to improve their health, but we forget our
health also depends on a healthy planet. Here are some tips on how to eat right
for yourself and the planet:
Eat more veggies. Whether it is just for
one day, such as Meatless Monday or going vegan, lessening your meat intake is
good for you and the planet. The United Nations Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO) has estimated that livestock production is responsible for
18% of greenhouse gases. This includes methane from animal waste, along with
fertilizers and manure used to produce feed and the deforestation to provide
grazing lands. Always be conscious of what your body needs, while keeping the
planet in mind. There are great recipes and restaurants to help you incorporate
more veggies into your life.
Shop organic.
Studies have shown that chemical farming uses considerably more energy per unit
of production than organic farms. These chemicals, such as nitrous oxide, not
only emit greenhouse gases, but also create dead zones-- areas in lakes, bays,
and the ocean that are oxygen depleted because the excess nutrients run off
into the water, polluting it. Choose organic food when you can. Since organic
foods are grown in healthy soils, they are typically more nutritious,
containing more vitamins and minerals. Organic farms also promote genetic
biodiversity, creating less water pollution and soil damage. This is healthier
for you, the farm workers, and the environment.
Buy local. The
average meal travels around 745 fossil fuel burning miles, before reaching your
plate. Thankfully farmers markets have been popping up around the state. Buying
local reduces the amount of energy used, greenhouse gases emitted during
transportation, and helps to slow climate change, while also supporting local
farms. Find a local farmers market near you - http://www.jerseyfresh.nj.gov/
Grow your own.
There is nothing more rewarding than nursing a seed to a sprout. Gardening can
be therapeutic and a form of exercise. You do not need to live on acres of land
to start a garden. You can start out small with a few pots of your favorite
vegetables or herbs. Not only will you be provided with nutritious, organic food,
but you will help provide oxygen for the planet and reduce CO2.
Compost.
Starting a compost bin is good for your garden and for the planet. Composting
reduces the amount of waste sent to the landfill, while making nutrient rich
soil for your plants and garden. Composters now come in all sizes, with towns
and organizations hosting events to educate the public about home composting.
Don’t be wasteful. We tend to eat with our eyes. We put too much food on our plate or in
our shopping cart. That is why close to half of all food produced worldwide is
wasted after production, discarded in processing, transport, supermarkets and
kitchens. Start small, you can always go back for seconds. It will benefit the
planet and your waistline.
Little,
gradual changes in your diet can go a long way for your health and the health
of our planet. Remember to always make sure you do what is best for your body
and your health, while being conscious of the environment.
