This Friday, April 22, is the 52nd annual Earth Day! Did you know that you’re already helping the earth every day by enjoying local foods? Especially fruit!
Producing fruits and vegetables has a much smaller environmental impact than other foods. Fruits and vegetables emit 10-50 times less greenhouse gases in production than animal products such as beef and dairy.
Additionally, growing fresh fruits and vegetables generally has a smaller water footprint than animal products and nuts. Think about it this way: every time you choose an apple for a snack over cheese, nuts, or boiled eggs, you’re conserving water!
Not to mention, local produce is even more eco-friendly than buying from chain stores. Local produce doesn’t have to travel far from field to table, so it saves the energy and fuel that would usually be spent on transportation.
Long story short, plant-based diets are better for the environment!
If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate Earth Day this year, try eating plant-based the whole day (if you don’t already). We’ve gathered a few delicious recipes befitting the day that are fun and 100% plant-based!\
Vegan Earth Day Cookies – Sugar cookies? Yes please. They’re colorful, vegan, and use easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have around your kitchen.
Blue + Green Fruit Salad with Tequila-Lime Syrup – Earth-colored fruit salad with an unexpected twist! It could be used for a midday snack, but it may be more of an end-of-day dessert item considering the tequila syrup. Either way, it’s delicious. (Alcohol content will depend on how much you cook it down)
Blueberry Kale Caesar Salad with Smoky Chickpeas – This hearty salad is packed with protein and fiber. It will make an amazing workday lunch!