how can what we eat affect the planet?

More and more we are hearing about the impact our dietary patterns can have on the planet, but what does this actually mean?

Well, let’s see some ways in which our dietary patterns can affect the planet…

…It is estimated that one-third of the food we produce is wasted. Food waste can then rot and release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

…80% of agricultural land is committed to farming animals, land which could be repurposed and used more efficiently to grow crops.

…Meat protein production has a relative environmental effect of up to 17 times more for land use, up to 26 times more water required, and up to 20 times more fossil fuels than soy protein production.

What is The Planetarian Diet?

This is a dietary pattern which includes foods that have a lighter effect on the environment and was announced by the EAT-Lancet Commission. Symbolically, it is represented by:

1. Half a plate of vegetables, fruits, and nuts.

2. Half a plate primarily of wholegrain and plant-based proteins. With some unsaturated plant oils, animal-based proteins, dairy foods, starchy vegetables and added sugars.

Ways we can get involved:

* The BDA’s Blue Dot Campaign.

* The CIWF’s Rethink Fish Campaign.

* The UN’s #ACTNOW Food Challenges.

What factors do we need to consider in a sustainable diet?

It is important to remember that many things make up a “sustainable diet” and when I use this term, I use it to encompass a diet which is sustainable for the planet, and also for us – socially, culturally, economically and for our health.