5 Unique Ways to Celebrate Veganuary
We’re well into the new year at this point, and 2021 sure has been full of surprises. We know it’s the end of January, but does time really even exist anymore? With our daily Zooms and constant influx of news, it’s never too late to switch things up. As an organization of environmentalists, EMA supports going plant-based, and what better way to start eating plant-based than by participating in Veganuary? Even by going vegan for just a month, you can save 30 animal lives, 620 pounds of CO2, 913 square feet of forest, and 33,481 gallons of water. Going vegan is an incredibly impactful way to reduce your environmental footprint in 2021, and this year, we’re hoping for some individual and collective environmental progress. Here are five unique ways to celebrate Veganuary, fit for the unique times we’re living in.
Order From a Local Vegan Restaurant
As of November 2020, the restaurant industry in the US had lost 2.1 million jobs, along with billions of dollars in revenue. Unfortunately, local businesses suffer economic losses the most, so if you can, order local take-out to help keep restaurants up and running. If you don’t have any local vegan or vegetarian restaurants, call your favorite spot and ask them if they can make special accommodations for you. More often than not, they’re more than willing to make you something plant-based and delicious!
Get Local with Community Supported Agriculture
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs are great for vegans and non-vegans alike: farmers offer shares of fresh, local produce in boxes in exchange for a membership fee. Farmers are able to engage with their communities and get an extra stream of revenue, while consumers can try new, exciting foods and support the local economy. To get in touch with CSAs in your area, enter your city’s name followed by “CSA” in your search engine, reach out to the farm you’re most interested in, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Give the Gift of Veganism
Let’s face it, everyone needs a pick-me-up now and then, and this January is no exception. In fact, now more than ever, people need happy surprises to uplift their spirits. Gifting your friends with small vegan surprises, like dark chocolate or a snack basket filled with vegan goodies, is sure to bring a smile to their faces. Whether or not giftees are vegan, they’ll be sure to appreciate an eco-friendly, random act of kindness.
Get Active and Refuel
If you’re feeling restless thinking about the new year, get active! Some ideas for moving your body include yoga, going out on a walk, dancing in the living room - the options are really endless! And after moving around and shaking away the very-real computer fatigue, get some plant-based goodness in your body! For post-workout snacks, go for something light and refreshing that has a balance of protein and carbs, like toast with nut butter and fruit, hummus and veggies, or crispy roasted chickpeas!
Have a Vegan Picnic
Outdoor, socially-distant picnics are making a comeback, and we’re pretty happy about it. Grab some vegan snacks, breads, fruit, and maybe vegan cheeses if you’re feeling fancy, and set out a blanket with some pretty decor in a local park. Getting closer to nature while eating is a win-win in our book.
By Sophia Donskoi