In an age where humans have taken over control of vast pieces of land—about half of the earth’s habitable land is used for agriculture[1]—we can formulate a new concept: The planet is what we plant. The other half of the habitable land is composed of forest, shrub, as well as urban and built-up land. The latter only accounts for 1%, although it is the part we spend the most time in.

Farmland comes in many forms and shapes. A staggering three-quarters of the agricultural area is used for livestock, including both grazing and animal feed production. It is hard not to marvel at the sheer scale of agricultural sites when flying over them in a plane. But it is important to keep in mind that this massive expansion in agricultural land use has happened quite recently. While 2000 years ago the total farming area was below 0.5 billion hectares, it is now approaching 5 billion hectares. As you may imagine, many of these farms are not operated in an ecological and sustainable way, which has been part of the success story of feeding the global population with increasing efficiency (i.e., decrease in land required per person has dropped from 1.2 to 0.6 over the past 50 years[2]). However, this comes at the cost of biodiversity due to the use of pesticides and monoculture, and a negative impact on the climate. Especially the increased cattle farming has led to a sharp increase in the atmosphere’s methane levels, a greenhouse gas 78 times more potent than CO2 on a 20-year scale, which has contributed to a third of the global warming observed to date[3].

Every single one of our daily choices affects how land use will change in the years to come. Walking to the supermarket or shopping for groceries online is like going to the ballot and casting a vote for how our future planet is going to be cultivated.

At the same time, our food choices affect our personal well-being, health, cognitive performance, and so much more. Why do we hear so little about this on the news? Quite simply, making a change can be painful in the beginning, but you will end up with something much more valuable in the end. We at Alter believe that these two things—health of the body and planet—align very well and can be pursued with every choice we make. Let us alter our choices together so we can alter the planet!

We are ready. Are you?

[1] Available at: World Economic Forum

[2] Available at: Our World in Data

[3] Available at: IEA

<p>The post Alter your body – Alter the planet first appeared on Alter 🍏.</p>

Attention, coconut enthusiasts! Let’s crack open the debate: organic coconuts versus their non-organic cousins. Get ready, because we’re diving into the science of this tropical favorite. Coconut water is a natural, fat-free drink. Low in sugars and calories, it is rich in essential electrolytes and vitamins. Dubbed the “fluid of life,” coconut is safe for everyone to drink fresh from the nut. As the Hawaiians say, coconut water is “dew from the heavens”[1].

First up, a surprising fact—most coconut farmers don’t bother with pesticides or fertilizers. Why? Because coconuts are the Chuck Norris of the plant world—they thrive without extra help. So, if you’re paying extra for that “organic” label, you might want to rethink it. Coconuts naturally grow strong and healthy without chemical assistance, making the “organic” label less critical than you might think.

But don’t go ditching organic just yet. While pesticides may not be a concern, pollution can be. Studies, like one from India, have shown that pollutants can seep into coconuts, particularly in areas with industrial contamination. Not great news for your tropical drink.

Now, let’s talk taste. Organic coconut products often pack a richer flavor, much like the difference between a mediocre piña colada and one that transports you to a beach paradise. Plus, organic farming is kinder to the environment, promoting biodiversity and reducing carbon footprints—something Mother Earth certainly appreciates. But here’s the catch—organic coconuts come at a premium. Is the price hike worth it? That depends on how much you value that extra flavor and the feel-good factor of supporting sustainable farming. Organic methods avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, benefiting both the environment and the workers in the fields.

No matter which side you choose, both organic and non-organic coconuts are nutritional powerhouses. The choice is yours, but rest assured, either way, you’re indulging in a taste of paradise. So, next time you’re picking out coconuts, consider whether you want to splurge for organic or go with the natural resilience of conventional ones. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a coco-nutty treat! Remember, your choices matter—not just for your health, but for the planet. So enjoy your coconut, and know that with each one, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future. One coconut at a time!

[1] The chemistry of Coconut Water (2017) Coconut Handbook. Available at: Coconut Handbook. (Accessed: 30 August 2024).

<p>The post The Juicy Truth About Organic Coconuts first appeared on Alter 🍏.</p>

Step 1: Baby Steps, Not Leaps

Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day Just as one doesn’t run a marathon after a decade of couch surfing, there’s no need to become an eco-warrior overnight. Start small. Replace one meal a week with a plant-based option. Perhaps a Meatless Monday? Or as we like to call it, Plantastic Monday!

Swap to Save Simple substitutions can yield significant results. Swap out beef for lentils in your hearty chili recipe. Not only will you conserve water and reduce emissions, but you might also discover a new favorite dish.

Step 2: Embrace the Plant Life

Vegetables Are Your Allies If you find vegetables mundane, you’ve been mingling with the wrong crowd. From roasted Brussels sprouts that taste like candy to spicy cauliflower wings, the plant kingdom is bursting with flavors that can transform any meal into a culinary delight.

Go Local or Go Home Buying local isn’t just for hipsters. Local produce is fresher, supports regional farmers, and has a smaller carbon footprint. Plus, farmers’ markets are the perfect setting for a romantic meet-cute over a basket of organic tomatoes.

Step 3: Waste Not, Want Not

Love Your Leftovers Channel your inner chef and turn those leftovers into gourmet meals. That half-eaten roast chicken? Meet your new best friend, chicken soup. Those wilted veggies? Stir-fry them into a masterpiece. The goal is zero waste, folks.

Get Creative with Scraps Before tossing carrot tops or broccoli stems, think again. Carrot tops make a fantastic pesto, and broccoli stems? Perfect for a crunchy slaw. Who knew being eco-friendly could be so gourmet?

Step 4: Meat Moderation

The Flexitarian Revolution You don’t have to go full vegan to make a difference. Embrace the flexitarian lifestyle by reducing meat intake and enjoying more plant-based meals. Think of it as diet diversification. You get the best of both worlds, like Hannah Montana but with food.

Quality Over Quantity When you do indulge in meat, make it count. Choose high-quality, ethically-sourced options. It’s better for the planet, the animals, and your palate. Trust us, that grass-fed steak will taste infinitely better when you know it’s part of a sustainable system.

Step 5: The Seafood Situation

Sustainable Seafood Choices If you adore seafood, ensure your choices are ocean-friendly. Look for sustainably caught or farmed options. Apps like Seafood Watch can guide you to environmentally responsible picks, so you can enjoy your sushi guilt-free.

Mussels and Oysters: The Unsung Heroes Mussels and oysters are not only delicious but also fantastic for the environment. They filter water and require minimal resources to farm. Plus, they’re the perfect excuse for a fancy date night at home.

Step 6: Mindful Eating

Eat with Intention Slow down and savor your meals. Mindful eating helps you appreciate your food, reduce waste, and make healthier choices. It’s like meditation, but tastier and with less sitting still.

Connect with Your Food Learn where your food comes from and how it’s produced. Whether visiting a local farm or reading up on sustainable practices, connecting with your food helps you make more informed choices.

Step 7: Spread the Word

Be an Eco-Influencer Share your sustainable food journey with friends and family. Host a plant-based dinner party, post your veggie-packed meals on social media, or casually drop fun facts about quinoa at your next brunch. Your enthusiasm might inspire others to join the movement.

Join a Community Find like-minded individuals on the path to sustainability. Join online forums, local groups, or community gardens. Support and camaraderie can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

The Final Bite

Transitioning to a more sustainable diet isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Every small step you take helps make a big impact on the planet. So, grab your kale, hug a carrot, and join us in making the world a tastier, greener place—one delicious bite at a time. Bon appétit!

<p>The post Ultimate Guide to a Sustainable Diet: Easy Steps for Eco-Friendly Eating first appeared on Alter 🍏.</p>