With a population steadily on the rise, estimated to reach 9.6 billion by 2050[1], it’s pretty urgent that we find a way to live comfortably within the natural capacity of our planet.
Source food locally
We’re currently exceeding the natural limits of our planet’s resources. Over-exploitation and rising consumption means that the earth’s resources are becoming scarcer. Today, we already need 1.5 planets’ worth of natural resources, and if as a planet we don’t make drastic changes, by 2050 we will need 2.9 planets’ worth of resources to meet growing demand[2].
The good news is, the solution might be as simple as moving towards a more plant-based diet. Our food system today is unsustainable for both our health and the environment, but plant-based foods are highly resource-efficient - they use less land, water and create less CO2.
Whether it’s nuts, rice, fruit or soya, more of what we eat should come from plants. Not just because it’s better for our own health, but because a lifestyle based on plants is altogether better for the health of the world we live in.
Grown from nature, plant-powered food and drink makes sense and is naturally better for the planet.
There are a few simple changes we can all collectively make to lessen our global impact on the environment:
- Source food as locally as possible. Your local farmers market is a great place to shop for your weekly food. Shopping locally will not only reduce the carbon footprint of your food, but you are also able to support the smaller producers in your community.
- Base your meals around plants. Doing this for just one day can reduce your individual water intake by 1,500 litres! This is the equivalent of two years and eight months’ worth of drinking water.
- Avoid unnecessary food waste. Plan ahead, and if you do end up with leftover fruit and veg - try finding a use for it such as freezing and whizzing into your next smoothie.
- Get curious. Read packets, look on company’s websites, and find out exactly where the food you are eating is coming from and how it is being produced. Support businesses such as Alpro who are making a conscious effort to change the way the world eats for the better by creating delicious, naturally healthy plant-based foods in a sustainable way.
Do your bit this Earth day, and beyond, to ensure our planet is fully equipped to meet the needs of future generations.
[1] UN, http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/news/population/un-report-world-population-projected-to-reach-9-6-billion-by-2050.html
[2] WWF, http://d2ouvy59p0dg6k.cloudfront.net/downloads/lpr_living_planet_report_2012.pdf