UN Climate Change Report Making You Want to Cut Meat?

When the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its landmark 2018 climate report, it seemed that people were suddenly listening. Eco-anxiety is high and for good reason. The report found that the planet is warming more quickly than previously thought, and estimates that by 2040, the world will be in crisis, experiencing extremes of drought and flood. With extreme weather and its impacts devastating homes and farms across the country, and the UN’s sobering preview of a future only getting worse, we are all itching to do our part. One suggestion in the report — one that’s not dependent on government or big business to listen up and make real change — is for us all to eat less meat.

This news is not new. Ever read 1971’s “Diet for a Small Planet?” Still, we’re glad people are paying attention and are here to help.

1. Meatless Monday

Giving up meat just one day a week means decreasing your meat consumption by nearly 15 percent, effectively decreasing the problems associated with meat production by the same amount. Meatless Monday is a worldwide campaign to get people to reduce their meat consumption in a mindful way. They offer up tips and recipes for making your meat-free day delicious and satisfying.

4. Think of Vegetables as the Star

The classic American plate was filled with a portion of meat twice the size of the vegetables. Instead, think like Michael Pollan, and “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” The ideal modern plate is comprised of two-thirds vegetables and whole grains and one-third (or less) animal protein. To make that change, try out recipes that feature vegetables as the main element, like mushroom meatballs, stuffed squash or cauliflower steaks.