Republican Atheists’ President is a Meatless Monday Ambassador
Republican Atheists’ President Lauren Ell recently became a Meatless Monday Ambassador to encourage people to reduce meat consumption. Here is a message from Ell..
What is Meatless Monday? According to the movement’s website, “Meatless Monday is a global movement with a simple message: one day a week, cut the meat. It can make a big difference in personal health and the health of the planet.” It was first launched during World War I when families were encouraged to reduce meat consumption because certain foods were not readily available due to low production during the war.
A primary reason why I have chosen to become a Meatless Monday Ambassador is because I value health and environment. I have long supported efforts that encourage people to become more conscious of their diets, and to reduce consuming fast food, boxed frozen meals and highly processed meats. I also think that Americans could use more motivation to increase the amount of vegetables and fruits in their diet, which a program like Meatless Monday can help with.
Additionally, reducing meat consumption contributes to environmental efforts. The production of meat is a large contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, as well as water and energy consumption. Less demand for meat means less negative impact on the environment.
Personally, I have valued reducing meat consumption for nearly a decade. I have never embraced vegetarianism, but I have always had an open ear to reducing meat consumption. I also think that growing interest in increasing fruit and vegetable consumption can motivate collaboration in communities. I am greatly interested in community garden initiatives, or home gardening projects, where people come together to grow their own vegetable and fruit supplies.
Meatless Monday encourages reduced meat consumption in organizations, schools, restaurants, and workplaces. Its website provides promotional materials, as well as recipes and e-cookbooks for those who are looking for meals to make that exclude meat.
For more information about Meatless Monday, visit MeatlessMonday.com.
Lauren Ell is President of Republican Atheists. She is a business owner, consultant, marketer and communications strategist. Contact Lauren Ell here. Follow Republican Atheists on Facebook and Twitter.
