Earth Day Lunch Illustrates Food Choices’ Environmental Impact

Eating more plants can improve health, ease world hunger, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money

On April 22, the Board of Church and Society at First UMC Richardson offered a plant-based lunch in honor of Earth Day. This expression of stewardship also marked a move toward justice, as eating more plants can improve health, ease world hunger, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money.

Chris Guldi, a member of FUMC Richardson and a Global Ministries EarthKeeper, said: “The amazing fact I want you to take away from today’s meal is that changing what you eat has a significant positive impact on creation. Enjoying a plant-based meal takes care of the earth and its inhabitants, as God instructed the first humans to do.”

In addition to serving a plant-based meal, organizers took additional steps toward good stewardship by using non-disposable plates and flatware, as well as cloth napkins. Food scraps and compostable bowls were added to the church garden’s compost afterwards. For decoration, the weekday children’s preschool made an arch out of toilet paper tubes, scrap paper and other items that would otherwise be thrown away.

If you or your church have questions about this event or would like to host something similar, email Rev. Pavielle Jenkins.

Published: Thursday, May 18, 2023