What we eat matters when it comes to taking care of the planet. How we shop is also a big factor that can positively or negatively impact our world. That’s why you should follow certain guidelines to live an eco-friendly vegetarian lifestyle.
Use Less Plastic
No matter what food you choose to eat, shop for it wisely. Don’t leave a store with a multitude of plastic bags carting around your groceries. Not only do they leave behind toxic chemicals and pollutants, but plastic bags also take 1,000 years to degrade in a landfill. Bring your own reusable bags to pack your groceries. It’s also wise to bring produce bags so you won’t have to use the plastic version offered by most stores. Be careful not to buy too much food that depends on plastic for packaging. All of this plastic ends up in landfills, and it’s not that hard to use packaging and containers that are more eco-friendly.
Buy Locally
Shopping locally is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. You won’t have to travel as far to get your food, and you might be able to bike or walk. Local food also doesn’t have to travel as far to get to a market or store, and this reduces pollution.
Local food may also be better for you. Food grown locally is not usually exposed to as many pesticides or other chemicals. This definitely helps the planet and can also be beneficial for your health. Of course, you need to make sure your food is grown in an eco-friendly way, even if you do buy it close to home. Buying locally gives you a chance to ask questions of the people who actually grow the food, so you have a better chance at transparency.
Shop the Bulk Bins
Many stores have bulk bins full of dried fruit, nuts, and oats. Chocolates and candies can often even be found in these bins. If you bring your own reusable produce bags, you can put bulk bin items inside and avoid the plastic packaging that comes with buying these items already packaged. The bulk bins may also save you money. It’s a winning situation for you and the planet.
Living a vegetarian lifestyle extends beyond what you eat. It also involves how you purchase and where you shop. With a little forethought, you can make the best choices for a better world.
Looking for vegetarian comfort food? Click here for some delicious recipes!
For more delicious recipes get our copy of the Gourmand World Award Winning book The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays and Special Occasions-2nd edition
