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Cooking for the Planet: Insight into Chicago’s Sustainable Culinary Scene

Cooking for the Climate - Chicago Health

Food and Climate Change: Making Sustainable Choices

The issue of food lies at the heart of climate change mitigation. Dietary choices and consumption patterns have far-reaching effects on greenhouse gas emissions, which in turn influence the food supply chain.

The severity of global climate extremes, from record-breaking summer heat to sweeping polar vortexes, can often make individuals feel powerless. However, the manner in which we choose to consume and prepare our food can have significant impacts on the climate.

“Adopting sustainable eating practices, such as minimizing food waste and supporting locally sourced, seasonal produce, contributes to mitigating these impacts and enhances the resilience of the food system,” explains Danielle Crumble Smith, a registered dietitian nutritionist.

One such practice is plant-forward eating, which emphasizes plant-based foods but includes other food groups as well. According to Smith, “Many people are unaware of the potential environmental impacts of their food choices. By shifting towards unprocessed plant-based foods, we can significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions.”

On a global level, plant-forward eating is directly linked to environmental sustainability. Preparing plant-forward meals is a fundamental step towards cooking for the climate at home, and it’s a principle shared by the foodservice industry too.

Integrating Sustainable Practices

Multiple food practices can make your eating habits more climate-friendly; some require an investment of time or money, while others are simpler.

For example, choosing high-quality wooden cutting boards, as opposed to plastic ones, is an eco-friendly choice. The Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) certification label is a reliable indicator that a product complies with forestry standards that safeguard the environment and uphold the rights of workers and indigenous communities.

Additionally, incorporating waste prevention strategies, like composting, into your food preparation routine can be environmentally beneficial. Registered dietitian nutritionist and chef Sara Haas suggests creative ways to reuse food scraps, such as making soup stock.

Considering a shift from gas stoves to induction stoves also provides a significant eco-friendly benefit. Induction stoves, which generate energy from an electromagnetic field, are highly energy-efficient, and a recent study associated their use with reduced greenhouse gas emissions and fewer hospitalizations due to respiratory issues. In addition, induction stoves are 5% to 10% more energy-efficient than traditional electric stoves and three times more efficient than gas stoves.

Supporting businesses that promote plant-forward eating, such as restaurants that spotlight seasonal produce and local farmers, is another way to contribute. Initiatives like Menus of Change champion sustainable food practices that benefit both human health and the climate.

Rebalancing food ratios to favor more plant-based sources and adopting sustainable practices in food preparation can not only help manage blood sugar, blood pressure, and body weight, but also yield positive environmental outcomes.

Original Story at chicagohealthonline.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024