Discover simple changes you can make today for a healthier planet tomorrow
Here at ISH we know that making radical changes isn’t always possible (or practical!). So we embrace the little steps that make a big difference. Since Earth Day is coming up on April 22, why not use it as an opportunity to kick-start your eco-friendly journey? Read on to find out how you can fight for the green revolution on this special day by implementing small but effective changes.
What’s the Earth Day theme for 2023?
The theme for this year’s Earth Day is ‘Invest In Our Planet’. EARTHDAY.ORG describes it as a ‘partnership for the planet’: a union between businesses, governments, and society with the goal of building a more sustainable future.
Pretty inspiring, right?
We think so too. We empower local communities by supporting microfinance loans to smallholder farmers through our partner Kiva. Through our partnership with Kiva we have helped smallholder farmers in the 5 countries which produce the bulk of the world’s coconut (a “hero ingredient” in Shrimpish). They’re now able to access traditional credit and banking through the Kiva Program.
These are loans that they wouldn’t have received otherwise. ISH Associates distribute these microloans to farmers every quarter and build a direct connection to regions where ingredients are grown. These loans are repaid and redistributed to other farmers. Being able to invest in the people of our planet, and nourish them just like they nourish us, is something we truly cherish here at ISH.
Does Earth Day really help the environment?
We know what you’re thinking.
Does one day really make a difference?
The truth is that yes, it does. From conservation projects to outright environmental laws, it’s impressive how much Earth Day has accomplished. Let the facts speak for themselves:
It created the U.S Environmental Protection Agency
The initial demonstrations carried out by 20 million eco-conscious Americans in 1970 were a success. The result? Congress approved the creation of a new federal agency dedicated to confronting environmental issues in December 1970. Industry polluters that had been spiraling out of control finally became accountable for their actions.
It advances climate literacy
We’re sure you agree that education is power. And it’s safe to say that EARTHDAY.ORG thinks so too! That’s why they founded the Green Ribbon Schools Program, the first federal program that awards schools that reduce environmental impact and provide ecological education.
It has planted millions of trees
We all know the importance of reforestation for our planet’s health. But EARTHDAY.ORG took it to another level. The Canopy Project, created in 2010, has planted hundreds of millions of trees across 32 countries. It takes place in communities impacted by environmental disasters and encourages people to restructure the local economy by restoring tree cover to their land.
Just like EARTHDAY.ORG, ISH recognizes that our environmental impact is felt around the world. That’s why we commit to a sustainable value chain, one that respects both community and climate. We partner with suppliers that are committed to both sustainable and regenerative practices, with the goal of lessening our supply chain impacts and building capacity in local farmer and fisher communities.
And it doesn’t stop there.
We follow a great model here at ISH, if we do say so ourselves. The Whole System Approach (our fantastic model) is what guides us to replace more of the natural and social capital than we take. We consider every single step: from the habitat in which our food grows, to the community that supports us, to our personal health. By recognizing the importance of each chapter, we really do change the world one plant-based bite at a time.
What you can do for Earth Day
Earth Day has spread some wonderful seeds of change, hasn’t it? If you’re feeling as inspired as we are right now, you’re probably thinking about how you can make a difference.
The truth is, you can make big changes by starting small. Why not use Earth Day as a springboard to adopt greener habits? Here are a couple of ideas, please do steal them!
- Try some plant-based food swaps
Try substituting animal protein for plant-based alternatives. Some vegan shrimp here, and a little plant-based salmon there. Drastic changes aren’t necessary, and a little goes a long way. By choosing to eat Shrimpish® (our tasty plant-based version of shrimp), you lower your carbon footprint. Replacing just 70 lb of traditional shrimp with Shrimpish® lowers your carbon footprint by 1,570 lbs of CO2! Want to find out more? You can use our impact calculator to discover just how much you can save with this delicious plant-based swap. - Reduce food waste
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has published a report exposing that food waste accounts for 8% of all human-made greenhouse gas emissions. You can make tremendous changes by eating leftovers, planning meals, and storing food wisely. Those ripened black bananas that are a little bit too sweet to eat? Make a smoothie with them. Dinner from last night? Eat it for lunch today!
Let’s celebrate this special day!
We can’t wait to see what Earth Day 2023 has in store for us. Whether it’s the first time you celebrate it or you’re already an experienced Earth Day enthusiast, remember –
Change starts with us.
