What You Can Do: Book Post 3

I know throughout this entire food ethic analysis you have all been bombarded with facts and websites and videos about how the world is going to pieces and itS on the brink of exploding and how everything is all our fault and on and on and on....so I figured I better equip you guys with some helpful and almost inspiring hints to keep us all on track.

1) Choose real food -- Synthetic, overpackaged, and energy sucking foods line our grocery stores and cram our pantries.  Choosing whole, fresh foods with minimal packaging is energy efficient eating.

2) Finish your dinner -- In the United States almost half of the food on our plates as a country ends up in the landfill and not nourishing our bellies which leads to huge greenhouse gas emissions.  To cut back, start by producing less food at home, save food for leftovers, waste less on paper products and untouched foods, and compost (a great fertilizer for those of us interested in producing our own veggies this summer!!!)

3) Local or Loser -- Support your local economy, reduce exessive fuel consumption from food shipped to stores from across the country, and taste all your backyard has to offer by shopping at stores that sell local products or farmer's markets.  Because of Georgia's mild climate, it is a great enviroment for all sorts of yummy foods so why not venture out and try a few (or grow some in your planter boxes at home. I do it and its really fun!)

4) Get into the Kitchen -- Ever wanted to take a cooking class?  Why spend tons of money on class and transportation when you can learn in the comfort of your own home? There are countless cookbooks for beginners, organic lovers, meals on a budget, whatever.  If you are used to eating out a certain number of times each week, try to replace at least one restaurant dinner a week with one cooked at home and show off your culinary skills!

5) Fight for Forests -- The Brazilian and Indonesian forests are taking huge hits due to deforestation and huge carbon emissions are being produced just because of the disappearing of trees.  These forests are being cleared not for more living space or lumber but to make way for livestock grazing, feed crops and production of biofuels.  Take a stand and join efforts like the Rainforest Action Network’s Agribusiness Campaign.

These were just a few ways to help make a difference.  I really encourage everyone to read at least a few chapters of Diet for a Hot Planet, if not the whole thing.  It is really an inspiring book and chock full of information.

GO GREEN!