World Environment Day is today, June 5. Many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians want to have a more positive impact on the environment, but aren’t sure where to start. When it comes to the food we eat, everything from how food is processed, transported, consumed and disposed of impacts our environment. As a dietitian, I can help you reduce your carbon footprint through some simple changes to your everyday food choices and routine. Here are my top tips:
Choose local and seasonal foods. Supporting local farmers by buying Canadian grown and produced foods helps to reduce our carbon footprint because these foods use less resources and fuel to get to grocery stores. Another benefit is local foods also retain more nutrients than their imported counterparts and can taste better.
Go Flexitarian. Eating plant-based proteins is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint, while also boosting your protein and fibre intake. The flexitarian food philosophy embraces flexibility. Even if you are not vegetarian or vegan, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy plant-based proteins such as nuts, seeds, and legumes. Spice things up instead of beef, why not throw a veggie burger on the grill during your next barbeque? Nowadays there are more plant-based options to choose from.
Eat naturally imperfect foods. Why waste perfectly good produce just because of how it looks? Help reduce food waste by buying fruits and veggies that aren’t perfect looking and may otherwise go in the garbage, such as overripe bananas, great in a smoothie or banana bread. These foods are economical, still taste delicious and are packed with nutrients.
Plan your meals. Planning meals ahead of grocery shopping and buying only the necessary ingredients will help to reduce the amount of food you end up throwing away. Check your fridge before your next trip to the store to see what foods you can use up and help avoid buying what you already have. Planning your meals and using your leftovers saves time, money and helps cut waste.
Plant a vegetable garden. With summer on the way and while we are spending more time at home, more people are taking to their gardens. Growing your own produce can help to reduce carbon emissions as well as making it easier to eat more vegetables. Kids especially will be more likely to try a vegetable they’ve grown and picked themselves. No greenhouse? No problem. I start my vegetables and herbs indoors in front of a window, and keep them inside until warmer weather. Once established and the risk of frost has passed, plants can be moved into the garden or pots on your deck. My favourite grow-at-home veggies are tomatoes, peppers and snap peas.
Remember, small changes can have a positive effect on both your own health and the environment — whether it’s World Environment Day or any other day of the year.
Danielle Farrell is in-store registered dietitian with Dominion stores in St. John’s, Mount Pearl, and Conception Bay South.
