We have all heard the phrase “Kindness begins at home.” This ideology of life is true in almost every aspect. Basic practices and habits that are normally followed at home would also be followed outside. This may also just be the best way to share and exchange some positive habits across communities so that not only your family at home but every house in a 1-mile radius will be able to believe in. Something similar can be done for promoting the idea of sustainability too. I have been going on and on about the different ways food can be made sustainable, especially at a global level. But how about a little personal perspective this time?
Sustainability begins at home! There are plenty of eating habits that can be changed at home to make them more environment friendly. Here are a few ways you can affect the world in a productive manner.
- Choose local and seasonal foods: Foods that are grown locally and in season are often fresher, tastier, and require less energy to transport, reducing your carbon footprint. Buying from local farmers also supports your local economy and helps to reduce the distance that your food has to travel to get to your plate. Look for farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or local grocers that source their products from nearby farms.
- Eat more plant-based meals: Plant-based meals have a lower carbon footprint than meat-based meals, and they can be just as satisfying and nutritious. Legumes (like beans and lentils), nuts, and seeds are all excellent sources of protein and other nutrients. Try incorporating more plant-based options into your meals, like veggie burgers, stir-fry with tofu or tempeh, or roasted vegetables with quinoa.
- Reduce food waste: Around a third of all food produced globally is wasted, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. To reduce your food waste, plan your meals ahead of time, make a grocery list, store your food properly, and use up leftovers. You can also compost your food scraps to create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
- Choose sustainable seafood: Overfishing is a major issue that threatens marine biodiversity. To choose sustainable seafood, look for labels like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), which certify that the fish has been caught or farmed sustainably. You can also choose seafood that is lower on the food chain, like sardines or anchovies, which tend to be more sustainable than larger fish.
- Use reusable containers and bags: Disposable containers, bags, and utensils generate a lot of waste and can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. Instead, use reusable containers and bags to pack your meals and snacks. You can also bring your own reusable utensils and straws to avoid using disposable ones when you're on the go.
Now you have no excuse whatsoever but to switch some of your nasty habits into these good ones mentioned above. I mean, come on, it’s for the environment. After all, we do want our future generations to live as luxuriously as we did. Let me know if you have any other ideas as to how we can be more cautious and eco-friendly at home.