six tips for a low-impact thanksgiving
one // Buy an ethically-raised turkey. Or skip it all together. Don’t support large-scale factory farms; order at least an organic turkey but perhaps go a step further to get one that was humanely raised, like a “pasture-raised.” These practices improve the health of the turkey and the health of the farm. However, don’t be hesitant to skip meat if possible. The environmental impact of raising animals is very significant, so eliminating meat from the meal would go a long way towards reducing your impact.
two // Use reusables not disposables. Food always tastes better off a real plate with a real fork. It’s a great time to bust out the china, if you have it. Your ancestors definitely weren’t eating with petroleum-based silverware!
three // Don’t buy any new decorations or clothing. Use what you have! Be grateful for what you have! Holiday decorations are the single-use plastic of home decor. If you already have some, great, but no need to go out and buy more. Especially during a pandemic!
four // Minimize food waste, and try to compost whatever you can. I’m always the person who takes compost home from a family party. Even though we’re having small gatherings this year, perhaps there’s someone who can collect the food scraps in a paper bag if you don’t have a way to compost yourself. Alternatively, there’s likely a compost drop-off point near you.
And nip food waste in the bud at the outset by making sure you don’t cook too much food, fill your plate too high, or forget to properly store what’s leftover. Also, make turkey broth from the carcass or send it home with someone who will.
five // Enjoy mashed potatoes! Did you know potatoes have one of the lowest carbon footprints of any food we eat? It only takes 3 gallons of water to produce one potato. They’re super sustainable, so be proud of your second helping.
six // Get outside. A walk or a “trot” before or after the Thanksgiving meal is always a good idea. The more we connect with nature, the more we think about the ways can help be good stewards for the earth.
Happy Thanksgiving!