Why Take Part In Meatless Monday?

It's always a great idea to recognize Earth Day by doing special activities to celebrate it, but what about when Earth Day is over? What happens then?

There's no need to make it just a one-day affair, because there are so many things you can incorporate into daily life to make Earth Day every day—simple, inexpensive things like using reusable bags, making your vehicle eco-friendly, or even making a commitment to using products that are safer for the environment. Another change you can make is by going meatless just once a week.

Even though you may think eating a plant-based meal just once a week may not be a big deal, according to the United Nations and the Environmental Protection Agency:

• It requires an average of 6kg of plant protein to produce 1kg of animal protein.
• It takes 100 times more water to produce 1kg of animal protein than it does 1kg of plant protein.
• Animal agriculture is responsible for 18% - 25% of global warming emissions worldwide.
• Cattle ranches and feed production account for over 70% of deforestation in the Amazon.
• The livestock sector is quite probably the largest source of water pollution worldwide.
• A single dairy cow produces approximately 120 pounds of manure per day, which is equivalent to that of 20 to 40 humans.
• On average, 990 litres of water are required to produce one litre of milk.

Imagine what can be accomplished if we were to all take part in Meatless Monday each week—or commit to going further and doing it more than one day a week. Since the Meatless Monday initiative was introduced back in 2003, 34 countries are now actively involved in participating and spreading the message. It's a simple thing that can have a huge impact not only on the environment, but also on our health (check out these must-see food documentaries that may change the way you look at food).

Nowadays, with Pinterest, and thousands of excellent plant-based food blogs to sift through, finding delicious, meatless recipes your entire family will love is really right at your finger tips. Participating in Meatless Mondays will be a piece of (vegan) cake!

What's your favourite meatless meal recipe?

For tons of delicious, meatless meal and dessert ideas, check out YMC's Meatless Mummy Con Carne, and for a delicious, plant-based dessert that will shock everyone when you tell them the secret ingredient, you must try this Dark-Chocolate Avocado Pudding.