There’s no one easy way to save the earth from climate change. But small actions we do can add up in a meaningful way for the planet. Here are five ways to eat more sustainably – while eating well:
- Eat more fruits and vegetables
It’s well-recognized that fruits and veggies are an important part of a healthy, balanced diet. But what’s more, eating more fruits and veggies brings more sustainable eating to your table, as they require small amounts of energy and land to produce, making them sustainable food options. - Repurpose kitchen scraps
There are likely some scraps left over after you make a meal. Rather than toss these carrot tops or onion skins in the garbage – where they’ll be left to fill up landfills – simmer them for at least 30 minutes to make flavourful stock for soups and stews. Smash up eggshells and mix them in your garden – the calcium in the shells gives plants lots of nutrients. - Eat in-season produce
Choosing to buy fruits and vegetables during the season in which they grow is another smart, sustainable choice, when available. Although summer’s bounty always gets high praise, there are plenty of delicious foods in season in the colder months. Cranberries, cabbage, sweet potatoes may come to mind – and they’ll be here just in time for festive feasts. - Support local farmers
When you support local farmers you can reduce the carbon footprint of your food. It doesn’t have to travel so far to get to you. It also helps you create community and contributes to a more stable and secure food system where you live. Attend farmers markets, check out local shops and grocers, look into community supported agriculture and see if you can visit a farm in your area to get to know them better. - Choose sustainable companies
When you do your grocery shopping, seek out products that are made using clean energy. For example, Burnbrae Farms Naturegg Solar Free Range eggs are produced on farms powered entirely by solar energy, making them among the most energy-efficiently produced eggs available in Canada. When personal and company values align, you can start to shift the marketplace and contribute to change on a bigger level.
Find out more about sustainable food production at burnbraefarms.com