Today is World Food Day. I can’t think of many issues more important than food. Food is political, powerful, and even more of a concern in a warming planet. Here are some of the many action items when it comes to food issues, as well as fantastic people to learn more from.
- Eat less meat and dairy. Meat and dairy production is responsible for 60% of agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions.
- Waste less food. According to UN stats, if food waste were a country, it would be the 3rd largest greenhouse gas emitter. Not only is throwing away food a huge waste of money, but it creates harmful greenhouse gases such as methane in landfills. Even when food is composted, we need to remember that this required immense amounts of water (as well as fertilizer and pesticides, typically).
- Grow your own food when possible, and share it with others!
- Choose food produced organically and with regenerative methods when possible, which helps improve soil health and trap carbon in the soil.
- Get to know your local farmers! Choose local and seasonal food when possible, which typically means a lower carbon footprint, as well as helps to support your community.
- Learn about, and do your best to support, plant biodiversity and heirloom varieties.
- Support organizations that fight poverty and food insecurity.
- Learn from others. Some of my favourite food-focused accounts these days are @zerowastechef, @hollyrose.eco (who discusses regenerative agriculture) and @marandas_world (who is doing a fantastic series about food waste.)
What else would you add? Any favourite resources or tips?
Leah Payne 
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