The saying goes that “abs are made in the kitchen”, but it’s arguably also a place where you can make some serious sustainable changes. From the packaging you choose to the choices you make, every small decision is a step in the right direction. Now you may already be a preppin’ pro but this will have you adding sustainability hero to your resume.
1. Food waste
Always get to the end of the week and somehow have to throw out a few odd soggy veggies? You’re not alone — the average household throws out one in every five shopping bags totalling a whopping $3,800 per year. Plan ahead using up the food you already have and buy only what you need. Having a plan of attack will keep your nutritionist happy and the planet happier.
2. Reusable containers
The only thing worse than forgetting your lunch is not being able to find a matching lid for your Tupperware container. Go back to school and grab yourself a lunchbox that you can fill up with delicious goodies each day, bringing your own will help the planet and your pocket.
3. Less meat
Did you know that it takes 140 times more resources to produce a beef patty than it does veggies? Make the sustainable switch and reduce the amount of meat you eat each week. It could be as simple as going plant-based one week of the month or joining in #MeatFreeMonday.
4. Cutlery
Single-use plastic makes up more than 50% of all of the plastic we consume. Reduce your environmental footprint by cutting down the amount of plastic you use by saying no to single-use and yes to a more long-term option with reusable cutlery. Bring your own spoon or fork when you’re out on the go and save the waste.
5. Sustainable choices
When it comes to hitting the shops there are a couple of ingredients you need to know for a sustainable shop.
Step 1 — Remember your reusable bag. It’s easier said than done!
Step 2 — Shop the outside of the store. Not only is this often where the healthiest food lies but it has the least packaging, think fruit and vegetables, eggs and milk (in a glass bottle when you can).
Step 3 — Shop by packaging and by price. It is often easy to dive for a product that is marked with a big red sale ticket, but before you assess the packaging that it comes in. Where you can opt for items in cardboard or glass over plastic.
Step 4 — Shop Australian. Support Aussie businesses and reduce the amount of carbon we produce importing goods in from overseas.