Our lives are so busy that it is easy to make food choices that conflict with our best intentions, especially with so much mouth-watering marketing and easily-accessible and more affordable unhealthy options around.

These poor food choices are feeding a health crisis. And while we need greater accountability from key role players, you and I also have a part to play.

Here are 5 ways to be part of the change:

Eating a variety of foods that are high in plants, fruits, legumes, nuts and wholegrains and lower in meat and dairy dramatically reduces your carbon footprint. Choosing these types of foods means consumer demand shifts what is farmed and how land is used.

If you eat meat, choose not to overconsume. Also, find out where your meat comes from, as free-range meat is higher in nutrients and better for the environment.

Wherever and whenever you can, choose seasonal produce from smallholder farmers and small food businesses, as they have a much lower impact on the environment.

Highly processed and convenience foods can be bad for your health and typically have a higher environmental footprint, not to mention the unnecessary and unrecyclable packaging that is associated with ‘food on the go’.

Avoid ‘buy in bulk’ hype which often leads to wastage or food going off if it’s not eaten in time. If this happens, compost what you can.

Inspired to eat healthier? Together we can set a new path for ourselves – one that prioritises both planetary and human health. Join us at the table at #LPC2019 on 25 July 2019 when we explore these realities and consider fresh solutions on how to nourish the nation.