Food is not just a source of sustenance; it is a reflection of our choices and values. This fact becomes even clearer when you decide to challenge yourself to walk the Camino de Santiago -or any other walking holiday for that matter.
In the last few years, we’ve grown increasingly familiar with the environmental impact of our food choices. Every step in the food supply chain affects our planet, and as consumers, we take a stand with every meal and every choice we make.
The global food system is a complex web of production, distribution, and consumption that spans the entire globe. Here are some of the most important environmental costs derived directly from our food:
- Carbon Footprint: The carbon emissions from agriculture, processing, and transportation contribute significantly to climate change. Foods imported have a higher carbon footprint due to the energy required for refrigeration and transportation.
- Deforestation: The demand for meat, particularly beef, has been a driving force behind deforestation in regions like the Amazon rainforest. This is an issue not only because crops are less efficient dealing with our carbon footprint, but also because deforestation leads to the loss of biodiversity and local ecosystems.
- Water Usage: The production of meat, especially beef, requires large amounts of water. This puts immense pressure on water resources and can lead to water scarcity in many regions.
Our Best Answer? Eating Locally
The easiest way to reduce the environmental impact of our food choices is by eating locally, at home but also when traveling. By eating local products we’ll be reducing our carbon footprint, helping to prioritize the local biodiversity, and strengthening local communities. Eating locally is definitely related to eating seasonally, which is also a great way to connect your body to nature and to learn about the culture and traditions of a region.
The Extra Step on Your Camino: Eating Vegetarian or Vegan
While eating locally is itself a sustainable choice, adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet can have an even more profound impact on reducing your carbon footprint. And you don’t even have to go all in if you don’t want to – although that would also be great! – even if you only choose one vegan or vegetarian meal a day, you’ll be helping the environment!
By being mindful of where our food comes from, and choosing vegan or vegetarian options when possible, each of us can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient food system. Your choices matter in the quest for a healthier planet!
Introducing Vegetarian Meals on the Camino!
As part of our commitment to doing our bit for the planet and taking our share in combating climate change and its long-term negative effects for all of its inhabitants, we encourage our clients to have one vegetarian meal during their multi-day guided tour with us.
This initiative is intended to firstly reduce the carbon footprint of each trip and also introduce eating vegetarian as another good and enjoyable alternative to some people and therefore promote reduced meat consumption back at home.
Ask for a quote and discover the Camino de Santiago with us. Follow the Camino is not only B-Corp certified but is also the only Camino service provider to hold this distinction.
