Sustainable People
We can all feel a bit alone in our fight against climate change. We might feel some crippling climate anxiety from time to time. But it can be helpful to know you are not the only one trying to make a small difference. We talked to four students in the community that try to live a sustainable life within the boundaries of the possible. If you need some inspiration for new vegan recipes to try out, some issues to educate yourself on or a simple action you can undertake today, definitely take a look at these four eco warriors.
Sustainable people: Lua
What is your favourite vegan/sustainable recipe?
Potato curry! It’s this recipe I found on this really nice vegan recipes website (https://lovingitvegan.com/vegan-potato-curry/). For the recipe, you just need potatoes, chickpeas, canned tomatoes, onions and garlic, coconut milk, a bit of ginger, and spices like coriander, garam masala, and cumin.
What is the issue surrounding the climate crisis you want to have solved as quick as possible?
One of the most pressing issues that we all need to take part in to solve asap is achieving a sustainable food and waste model. In the last years, we have seen an exponential increase in people choosing vegetarian and vegan diets but, to have any hopes of saving the planet, this movement needs to be even more widespread. The same goes for waste. We need to make use of the alternatives we have, such as composting and buying in bulk.
What is one sustainable thing you think everyone should do?
One of my housemates, Dana, planted a veggie garden in the back of our B3 house and I think it’s such a great idea to be more environmentally friendly. By making a little garden in any space available in your house, you get to have free, sustainable veggies most year-round!
What is your favourite vegan/sustainable recipe?
I like making pumpkin soup when the season becomes autumn. Cooking with in-season foods when I can is something that I really enjoy
What is the issue surrounding the climate crisis you want to have solved as quick as possible?
I think over-consumption is a major problem. This includes food, clothes, or other things that we believe we need. Everything in moderation is the way to go.
What is one sustainable thing you think everyone should do?
Reusing and upcycling things as much as possible. For example, I upcycled an old tote bag into an apron
What is your favourite vegan/sustainable recipe?
Chilli sin carne😋 here is a recipe: https://biancazapatka.com/en/chili-sin-carne-with-rice-vegan/
What is the issue surrounding the climate crisis you want to have solved as quick as possible?
For me, the most pressing issue caused by global warming is coral bleaching.🐠💙
coral reefs play a crucial part in marine ecosystems all over the world as they serve as food sources and habitats for many marine species. But also humans depend on them as a source of income and food.
Last year I was very fortunate to see a healthy coral reef in the Caribbean Sea. It felt like entering a new world, full of colours and life.☺️
What is one sustainable thing you think everyone should do?
Imply more vegan meals into your diet. Avoiding meat and dairy may be the single biggest thing an individual can do to reduce their impact on the earth. 🌏🌱 https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.theguardian.com/environment/2018/may/31/avoiding-meat-and-dairy-is-single-biggest-way-to-reduce-your-impact-on-earth
What is your favourite vegan/sustainable recipe?
Kimchi jeon! It’s a Korean pancake simply made with kimchi (plus its juice), flour, and water, then pan-fried! Make sure the kimchi doesn’t have any seafood extract in it or make your own stock. I love it because it’s quick and easy, warming and comforting, soft and crunchy.
What is the issue surrounding the climate crisis you want to have solved as quick as possible?
I wish to see stricter regulations on animal agriculture, both for the sake of the animals suffering in it and the related environmental damage it causes. The EU is on its way to banning cages in factory farming, which I think is a good move and the right direction, but we have a very long way to go.
What is one sustainable thing you think everyone should do?
I think that what someone can realistically do depends fully on their circumstances, so I can’t really make blanket statements in that regard. However, I do firmly believe that everyone should take the time to educate themselves and to reflect on what they are doing, and what they could be doing, and to change their actions accordingly. For me, small actions look like eating a plant-based diet and biking or taking public transport rather than driving!