Think green ... live clean - eat for the planet
What we eat does not just affect our health - it can help the planet, too. Choosing more plant-based meals and reducing food waste supports a greener, cleaner environment.
In the UK, we waste around 9.5 million tonnes of food every year, enough to fill 4,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Shockingly, 70% of this waste comes from households, and over 4.5 million tonnes of it are still edible.
When food ends up in landfill, it releases methane - a powerful greenhouse gas. UK food waste generates 25 million tonnes of CO emissions annually, equivalent to the emissions from 3.5 million cars.
But there's good news: composting food scraps returns nutrients to the soil, helping green plants grow strong and healthy.
By planning meals, storing food properly, and composting leftovers, we can all make a difference. Think green when you eat because small changes at home can help the planet thrive.
Ways to eat and save the planet ...
Eat more plants - choose vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes-they use fewer resources and produce fewer emissions.
Cut down on food waste - plan meals, store food properly, and use leftovers. UK households waste 4.5 million tonnes of edible food each year.
Compost food scraps - turn peels, cores, and leftovers into nutrient-rich compost to feed green plants and reduce landfill waste.
Buy local and seasonal - support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint of transporting food long distances.
Grow your own - even a windowsill herb garden helps reduce packaging and transport emissions.
Choose organic if you can - organic farming supports soil health and biodiversity.
Reduce meat and dairy - livestock farming is a major source of greenhouse gases.
Avoid over-packaged foods - choose loose produce or items with minimal, recyclable packaging.
Support sustainable brands - look for eco-labels and companies committed to ethical, green practices.
Share and donate - share surplus food with neighbours or donate to local food banks to prevent waste.
Eating more plant - based meals is one of the easiest ways to fight climate change - why not start by having a meat-free Monday, shop for local veggies and get creative in the kitchen!
Read more here: Food and Climate Change: Healthy diets for a healthier planet | United Nations