The majority of us are meat eaters, grateful to farmers who produce our favourite cuts of meat. However a visit to the supermarket or a glance at a restaurant menu show more and more vegetarian dishes are now being made available. The term vegetarian was probably first used in reference to a school in London in 1838 and used by the Vegetarian Society in Manchester in 1847. But vegetarianism is far from new, for example it was practised in the 9th century BCE by Jainists in India. Today, parts of many countries, especially in India, are totally vegetarian.
There are well known degrees of vegetarianism. Vegan, and many others less strict, such as those which allow eggs or fish. Faith and health have always been among the reasons for a veggie diet. Now climate concern is another. Many studies show cattle farming produces much more methane (a major greenhouse gas) than arable. So what are concerned meat eaters to do? One option is to stop eating meat, hard for those who enjoy a well cooked roast! Another is to choose to eat less meat, perhaps to have one or more days a week as veggie days. Or maybe to choose a veggie meal when eating out. There are many good recipe books that describe tasty non meat dishes for home cooking. NB dairy products are not very climate friendly.
A balanced diet is good for our health, so a strict veggie diet relies on food like nuts, pulses and quinoa for protein. (Dietary advice is available if needed.) Veggie eating is a way of reducing our carbon footprint, earning Brownie points. Give it a try if not already doing so.
Our work party met on 5th July at Hurston Warren SSSI, uprooting a forest of Himalayan Balsam. More Balsam bashing this year in various locations in June and July showed last year’s efforts were effective in reducing the spread. Good news.
We next meet on 2nd August at 10am at Dyke Farm, West Chiltington road. Meadow hay raking and weeding the hedge trees planted last year. The aim is to provide for small mammals and birds. Gardening clothes and gloves are suggested, other equipment is provided. Working in the open air makes the break for a cup of coffee at half time well earned. Come and join us, share transport for more Brownie points.
For information about this and our other activities, or on becoming a member, or offering advice, please get in touch with Chairman Mick Denness on 01903 745971, or see our website. www.storringtonconservation.org.uk/.
Submitted to the Storrington Community Website using the News Item contact form.