Earth Day 2020: Easy Ways to Celebrate!

Sherene Chou | April 20, 2020

This year marks the 50th celebration of Earth Day, which is observed on April 22nd. Earth Day began in 1970 when over 20 million people around the globe mobilized to bring more attention to how we, as a people, treat our planet. Today, it is observed in over 190 countries around the world. Earth Day 2020 will look a little different as many of us are at home. Though we won’t be marching to celebrate this year, being at home actually has a greater impact on preserving our planet. In fact, some of the easiest things we can do start right in the kitchen.

Easy Ways to Celebrate in the Kitchen

Over a quarter of the global gas emissions come from food. Nearly 60 percent of those emissions come from animal products, with half coming from red meat and the other half from other animal products. So, does this mean we all have to become vegetarians? No, but rethinking your protein is a great place to start. Moving towards a plant-friendly diet can help fight climate change and improve your health.

Making some simple swaps can go a long way. By swapping out just four ounces of beef for four ounces of beans, you’re saving nearly 350 gallons of water and reducing your footprint!

Here are some simple tips from The Culinary Institute of America and the Department of Nutrition at Harvard School of Public Health to help get you started.

Make vegetables the star. Celebrate your favorite vegetables by putting them front and center. Vegetables don’t have to be boring. Dress them up with the Perfect Pesto or Plant-Based Mole.
Use meat as a topping. Just by cutting down your portions, you’re helping to reduce the impact on the environment. Instead of four ounces, try using two ounces, which leaves more room for veggies on your plate.
Build blended burgers or meatballs. Try bulking up your burgers with mushrooms, legumes, or whole grains that will help give you the perfect mix of fiber and protein.

Not only are these tips good for you, but they’re also good for the planet! You’re onto eating your way to a healthier world. Want some more tips in and out of the kitchen? Check out the 25 Easy Ways to Sustainable Living below!