As we enter the new year, many of us are setting new goals for healthier living—both for ourselves and for the planet. One of the easiest and most impactful changes you can make is to examine what’s on your plate. This January, why not take part in Veganuary—a month-long challenge to eat no animal products—and see the difference it can make for both your health and the environment?
If committing to a full month of plant-based eating feels like a big leap, don’t worry! You can still make a positive impact by incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. And, if Veganuary isn’t for you, simply trying one meat-free day per week could also have a significant environmental benefit.
The environmental impact of meat consumption
The production of meat, particularly red meat like beef and lamb, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. According to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, livestock farming accounts for nearly 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions, more than all forms of transportation combined.
But it’s not just about emissions. The meat industry also has a substantial impact on our natural resources. Producing 1kg of beef requires about 15,000 litres of water—enough to fill 50 bathtubs! In comparison, plant-based foods like lentils, beans, and vegetables require far less water to grow. Around 30% of the world’s land surface is dedicated to livestock farming, contributing to deforestation and biodiversity loss.
The power of meat-free meals
If everyone in the UK replaced just one red meat meal with a plant-based meal each week, it would be equivalent to taking 16 million cars off the road in terms of carbon emissions! This means that even small changes—like choosing plant-based meals once a week—can have a huge environmental impact. Definitely some food for thought.
Veganuary provides an opportunity to fully embrace plant-based eating for the month of January, but you don’t need to dive in completely to make a difference. Just by cutting out meat for a day each week, you’re already contributing to a cleaner, greener world.
If you’re struggling for ideas on where to start recipe wise, check out this jacket potato and veggie chilli recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 400g kidney beans
- 500g meat-free mince
- 400g tinned chopped tomatoes
- Chilli con carne recipe mix
- 150ml soured cream
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 500ml water
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan). Scrub the baking potatoes clean, then make a small incision in each one to allow steam to escape during cooking. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 75-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the potatoes are baking, heat a large saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the meat-free mince and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and heated through.
- Next, sprinkle in the chilli con carne mix, stirring well to coat the mince. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and 500ml water, stirring again. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavours to combine.
- Drain and rinse the kidney beans, then add them to the pan with the veggie chilli. Stir through and let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the beans are heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding extra spice or salt if needed.
- Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and slice them in half. Fluff up the insides with a fork for a lighter texture. Divide the potato halves onto plates, then generously top each with the veggie chilli mixture.
- Add a dollop of soured cream on top of the chilli for a creamy contrast to the heat of the dish. You can also sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like coriander or chives for an added burst of flavour.
This dish offers a perfect balance of comforting carbs, plant-based protein and rich, flavourful taste.
Remember, the small changes you make today can have a lasting impact on the environment tomorrow. Whether you fully embrace Veganuary or simply start with meat-free Mondays, every plant-based meal is a step toward lowering your carbon footprint.
Sources:
- UN Food and Agriculture Organization.
- Water Footprint Network.
- World Resources Institute.
- BBC News.
