Earth Hour has snuck up again. For those who need reminding, it’s an hour where you’re “setting an example” for the kids by turning off the lights and TV – and dusting off a few board games. It began in 2007 as a grassroots global movement, inspiring people to take action on climate change and protect the planet.
My wife is somewhat more “crunchy granola” than I am, and loves a round of Scrabble under the illumination of a few beeswax candles. I’m happy it’s only once a year…
Unplug and Enjoy Earth Hour Snacking
What I do enjoy, however, is a little Earth Hour snacking. And there are plenty of ways to indulge in a few treats while being kind to the environment. Vince’s colleague Danielle Cosentino, a holistic nutritionist and natural chef, offered these recommendations.
Reduce Packaging Waste with Our Bulk Section
“You can start with some healthy choices from our bulk section,” began Danielle. “Whether it’s nuts, pumpkin seeds, or dried fruits, you reduce the amount of packaging waste when you create your own snack mixes.”
Ethically Sourced, Fair Trade, Responsible & Sustainable Options
She also pointed to a display of chocolate – one of my favourite foods. “Green and Black offer a range of organic bars that are both high-quality and delicious,” she continued. “They’re also ethically sourced and fair trade, which means they’re farmed and obtained in a responsible and sustainable way, and that workers and farmers are treated fairly.”
Ditto for Ethical Bean Coffee, which as the name implies, is also fair trade and ethically sourced. There’s nothing like a good cup of joe to spark some lively eco discussion and debate.
Choose Recyclable Packaging
Or if coffee isn’t your thing, try another earth-friendly beverage option. “Kiju Juice comes in Tetra Paks and all materials are fully recyclable,” added Danielle. “The juice boxes are re-pulped into consumer goods such as paper towels and toilet paper.”
For something a little more savoury, Gusta sausages and cheeses are a tasty vegan alternative to the real thing. And, according to Danielle, they aim to make less of an environmental impact, while avoiding excess packaging.
Of course, granola is still synonymous with the eco warrior, and although not all qualify as either earth-friendly or particularly healthy, Georgian Bay Granola scores high marks. It is made with certified organic ingredients, and sweetened with pure Canadian maple syrup.
So while you’re toiling through Scrabble, fuel your brain cells with a few options that are both good for you, and the planet. You may not hit that triple word score, but it’ll take the ‘bored’ out of board games, and help you and the family enjoy an hour, or hopefully more, unplugged.
As always, we welcome your questions and feedback. You can leave a comment right here on the site. Or head on over and join in the conversation on Facebook (remember to ‘Like’ the page) and Twitter. If you haven’t already signed up to receive our weekly news delivered right to your inbox (including the blog, our weekly product feature, signup for our Coterie Program, and our recipe of the week), you will find the signup by clicking here.
Til next time,
Neil
