MONTH 8- EAT A PLANT-BASED MEAL ONCE A WEEK
Big Picture Impact: By eating one plant-based meal a week, you can save approximately 40 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions per year. If everyone in the U.S. made this small change, it would be equivalent to removing half a million cars from the road annually.
Why It Matters:
Environmental Impact: Animal agriculture is responsible for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing plant-based meals, you help lower carbon emissions and reduce water and land usage.
Resource Efficiency: Producing 1 kilogram of beef requires 15,400 liters of water, while 1 kilogram of vegetables requires just 322 liters.
Health Benefits: Plant-based diets are linked to lower risks of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
MONTHLY GOAL: TRY A “MEATLESS MONDAY” TO REDUCE THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF MEAT PRODUCTION. EXPLORE PLANT-BASED RECIPES THAT ARE AFFORDABLE AND NUTRITIOUS.
FREE ALTERNATIVE: PREPARE A SIMPLE PLANT-BASED MEAL USING AFFORDABLE STAPLES YOU ALREADY HAVE, LIKE RICE, BEANS, AND VEGETABLES.
DAILY ACTION: Include at least one plant-based snack or side in your meals each day. Track the different plant-based foods you try and your satisfaction with them.
WHY DOES IT MATTER : Producing 1 pound of beef requires about 1,800 gallons of water. Eating more plant-based meals can reduce water use and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
IT WILL SAVE YOU MONEY: Preparing a plant-based meal instead of a meat-based one can save $5-10 per week, potentially reducing monthly grocery bills by $20-40.
IF YOU WANT TO INVOLVE YOUR KIDS: Get kids involved in cooking by letting them choose a plant-based recipe and help prepare it. They can learn about different vegetables and fruits and how to make tasty meals.
BE A CHANGE MAKER: Host a plant-based community potluck where everyone brings a dish. This can introduce people to new recipes and create a sense of community around sustainable eating.
