Have you heard of the climatarian diet and lifestyle? It’s a way of eating and living that’s gaining popularity, especially among eco-conscious millennials. As a climatarian myself, I’m here to break it all down for you.
What Does it Mean to be a Climatarian?
At its core, being a climatarian means making food choices that have a lower carbon footprint and are better for the environment. It involves cutting back on foods that contribute heavily to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
The biggest culprits are foods from industrial animal agriculture like meat, dairy, and eggs. Studies show that going plant-based is one of the biggest ways individuals can reduce their environmental impact.
So being a climatarian isn’t just a diet, it’s a whole lifestyle geared towards sustainability and fighting climate change through your daily choices.
How to Become a Climatarian
Switching to a climatarian way of eating is easier than you might think! Here are some tips:
- Eat More Plants
Load up on fruits, veggies, grains, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds. These plant foods have a low carbon footprint compared to animal products. - Cut Back on Meat and Dairy
You don’t necessarily have to cut these out completely. But being a climatarian means eating way less of them and choosing plant alternatives when possible. - Buy Local and Seasonal
Opt for locally-grown, seasonal produce when you can. It doesn’t have as many food miles racked up. - Reduce Food Waste
So much edible food ends up in landfills producing methane emissions. Plan meals, buy only what you need, and compost. - Choose Sustainable Seafood
If eating fish, choose certified sustainable options to protect oceans.
The Climatarian Diet
There’s no single way of eating for climatarians. Many go fully plant-based (vegan), while others eat some meat, dairy and eggs but in moderation. The key is dramatically reducing consumption of animal products and emphasizing minimally-processed plant foods.
A typical day on a climatarian diet could include:
- Overnight oats with fruit for breakfast
- A big salad with chickpeas and avocado for lunch
- Lentil soup and roasted veggies for dinner
The diet is naturally high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while being lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. Many find they have more energy and lower disease risks too.
Conclusion
Making the switch to a climatarian lifestyle is a powerful way for individuals to make a positive environmental impact. It can seem challenging at first but is very doable with some simple swaps and meal planning.
If eating for the planet and your health is important to you, I’d encourage you to give climatarian eating a try. Your tastebuds and Mother Nature will thank you!
