It’s important to remember the relationship between food and our future. The food we eat is responsible for approximately 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions; this will increase if we don’t make changes to our diet and ensure we eat more sustainably.
It is possible to eat healthily and sustainably, and to consider the products we buy and their packaging, whilst still enjoying nutritious, affordable food. It’s also important to to minimise the amount of waste we create.
Earth Hour, taking place on Sat 24 Mar at 8.30pm, is a global movement which brings millions together to call for greater action on climate change. Each year people worldwide switch off their lights and organise events – at home or in their community – to show they care about the future of our planet. This Earth Hour, we are encouraging people to consider the impact of their diet and make a promise to eat more sustainably.
WWF’s Livewell easy steps for eating and shopping:
Eat more plant-based foods
Vegetables, beans and nuts can be full of flavour too!
A colourful meal is a healthy meal
A colourful plate adds variety, nutrition and a more natural, flavourful, exciting meal.
Shop smart, waste less
Bring reusable bags when shopping, and choose loose products where possible. This also helps us to take home only what we need. The average UK household wastes approximately 30% of food it buys – like taking £100 out of the bank and instantly binning £30. Get creative with leftovers so your pennies and food provisions stretch even further.
Moderate your meat – red and white
The most popular meat in the UK today is chicken, but eating less of it does not mean going without protein, which is contained in many plant sources.
Know what you’re eating
Logos to look out for when shopping include Fairtrade (protecting farmers and workers in developing countries), Freedom Food (animal welfare), MSC and ASC (seafood), and RSPO (palm oil).
Treat ultra-processed foods as treats
They often contain high levels of sugar, fat and salt, and tend to be far more resource-intensive to produce.
Why not attend a food and community-oriented local event on Sat 24 Mar? In Cardiff, Chapter Arts Centre will be supporting Earth Hour and Milgi will be hosting a candlelit dinner focused on plant-based foods. Join in their festivities or encourage your favourite restaurant to hold a candlelit dinner during Earth Hour.