Save the planet diet
11:36 01 June 2007
A recent study by the Soil Association found that 70% of the food eaten in the UK is still imported.
And the majority of it is flown in, which is hugely damaging to the environment.
But you can do your bit to save the planet by adding fresh, locally produced food to your plate. So here's how to revamp your diet ...
BUY LOCAL
How it helps the planet
It reduces the pollution caused by transporting food for miles, which adds to carbon dioxide emissions.
According to Defra, the distance a food travels from field to plate rose by 15% between 1992 and 2002.
Why it's good for you
With less time from farm to fork there will be more vitamins in your food.
How to do it
Buy British when you shop at the supermarket and ask your local greengrocer which produce is grown nearby.
Also, check out your closest farmers' market for fresh food direct from growers in your area. Visit Farmers Markets for more information.
REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF MEAT YOU EAT
How it helps the planet
Worldwide, nearly a fifth of the greenhouse gas emissions caused by humans are down to livestock production. It is also a major source of land and water degradation.
Producing a meat-based diet requires seven times more land than a plant based one.
Why it's good for you
High meat consumption (red and processed, in particular) is linked with higher rates of colon cancer.
Reducing the amount you eat - and having more vegetables, grains and pulses - can help you stay slimmer and healthier.
How to do it
Beef production creates a particularly high carbon footprint. Chicken and turkey have a smaller one - so switch to these white meats, which are also lower in saturated fat.
Going veggie for just one day a week can make a big difference, to both your health and the environment.
BUY SEASONALLY
How it helps the planet
By eating more fresh British produce in-season, you reduce the need for food to be grown in heated glasshouses, or flown thousands of miles around the world to ensure year-round availability.
Why it's good for you
Food eaten in-season is at its peak, taste-wise and nutritionally.
How to do it
Seasonal British crops available in May and June include lettuce, radishes, asparagus, watercress, new potatoes and spinach.
For a complete guide of what's available click here.
Also, in-season produce is cheaper - read the label to check it's produced in Britain.
ONLY USE SUSTAINABLE FISH SOURCES
How it helps the planet
By making sure you choose fish species that aren't endangered, and only choosing types that are fished sustainably, you help to ensure future generations can also eat fish.
Why it's good for you
There's no additional health benefit to sustainably-caught fish but one portion of oily fish a week supplies all the vital omega-3s that your heart and brain need.
How to do it
Buy fish that has the Marine Stewardship Council logo, which is a stamp of approval for sustainable seafood. Fish to avoid because of declining stocks include North Sea cod, wild Atlantic salmon and shark.
DRINK LESS BOTTLED WATER
How it helps the planet
This avoids the carbon emissions involved in shipping the water and especially in making and recycling the bottle.
Why it's good for you
Hard tap water can be higher in calcium and magnesium (important bone minerals) than bottled water.
How to do it
Stick to tap water where possible. If you do drink mineral water, try to stick to locally produced types.