A guide to a greener plate 

Sustainable eating includes: 

Opting for plant-based meals 

Meat production is one of the largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing meat consumption can significantly lower your carbon footprint. Try incorporating more plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, tofu and quinoa into your diet. 

Choosing local and seasonal ingredients 

Locally sourced and seasonal produce often has a smaller environmental impact. It requires fewer resources to grow, transport, and store, while supporting local farmers. 

Supporting organic farming 

Organic farming practices use fewer synthetic chemicals, promote biodiversity, and often focus on soil health, which contributes to long-term sustainability. 

Reduce packaged and processed foods 

Minimize your consumption of highly processed foods, which are often wrapped in single-use packaging. Choose whole foods and buy in bulk, when possible, to reduce plastic waste.

Eat mindfully 

Eating mindfully means enjoying each bite and reducing overeating, which leads to food waste. Slowing down your meals helps you better appreciate the flavours and avoid overindulging. Start with smaller portions to ensure you’re not throwing away uneaten food – you can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry. 

How to reduce food waste at home: 

1. Plan your meals – Before heading to the store, plan out your meals for the week. This reduces impulse buying and ensures that you’re only purchasing what you need. 

• Make a grocery list and stick to it 

• Incorporate leftovers into your meal plan 

• Be mindful of expiration dates 

2. Proper food storage – Storing food correctly can extend its life and help reduce spoilage. For example: 

• Vegetables: Keep greens in breathable bags in the fridge drawer 

• Fruits: Store fruits like apples and bananas separately, as they emit ethylene gas which can spoil other produce 

• Bread: Freeze bread to extend its freshness 

3. Use the whole ingredient – Get creative with your ingredients and use vegetable peels and stems for stocks or soups. Many foods considered scraps are perfectly edible and nutritious 

• Turn stale bread into croutons or breadcrumbs 

• Use carrot tops for pesto or broth 

• Roast potato skins for a crunchy snack 

4. Embrace leftovers – Transform leftovers into new meals rather than discarding them. For example: 

• Use leftover vegetables in a stir-fry or soup 

• Turn extra meat or grains into wraps or salads 

• Freeze what you won’t eat immediately 

5. Compost what you can’t eat – Composting food scraps helps reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, where food decomposes and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Composting turns food waste into nutrient-rich soil, which can be used for gardening. 

• Create a simple compost bin at home for kitchen scraps like vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells

• Use a community composting service if you don’t have a garden

Sustainable eating and reducing food waste are key steps towards protecting the planet and its resources. By making small changes in how we shop, cook, and eat, we can reduce our impact on the environment while enjoying healthier, more nutritious meals. 

Let’s take the challenge – starting today, let’s reduce our food waste and move towards a more sustainable future, one meal at a time!