Take a 'Right' Turn towards Sustainability: Make this new year one that counts

The new year is here, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on the small changes we can make to live more sustainably. One of the easiest—and surprisingly impactful—ways to make a difference? Eating more plant-based meals.

It’s not about overhauling your entire life overnight or committing to a diet that feels restrictive. It’s about taking simple, thoughtful steps that are better for the planet—and delicious, too. Movements like Veganuary have been gaining traction for good reason: they’re a fun, low-pressure way to experiment with plant-based eating for a month and see how it works for you.

Let’s explore why plant-based eating is good for the planet, how it fits seamlessly into your routine, and some practical ways to start making changes this year.

Plant based eating

Why eating plant-based helps the planet

You’ve probably heard that plant-based eating is better for the environment—but what does that really mean? It boils down to the resources needed to produce animal products versus plants. Animal farming is incredibly resource-heavy, requiring huge amounts of water, land, and energy while producing significant greenhouse gas emissions.

Here’s how plant-based eating helps:

  • Less greenhouse gas emissions: Producing plant-based foods creates far fewer emissions than raising livestock. A plant-based burger, for instance, has a fraction of the environmental impact of a beef burger.

  • Saving water: Did you know it takes about 1,800 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef? Compare that to beans or lentils, which require significantly less, and the savings add up fast.

  • Preserving land: By eating more plant-based meals, we reduce the demand for land needed for animal farming, leaving more space for forests, ecosystems, and biodiversity to thrive.

The takeaway? Every plant-based meal you eat is a small step toward reducing your environmental footprint.

Plant based eating

What Is Veganuary?

If jumping straight into a fully plant-based lifestyle feels like a lot, Veganuary might be a great way to dip your toes in. The idea is simple: for the month of January, commit to eating plant-based. Whether you’re trying just one meal a day or going all in for 31 days, it’s a chance to experiment and explore.

The beauty of Veganuary is that it’s not about perfection. It’s about trying new foods, learning what works for you, and finding meals you genuinely enjoy. Plus, knowing you’re making a positive impact—without making drastic changes—feels pretty good.

How to start eating more plant-based

Plant-based eating doesn’t mean giving up your favorite meals. In fact, it’s easier than ever to incorporate plant-based options into your routine. Here are a few tips to get started:

1. Take it one meal at a time

You don’t have to go all-in. Start by swapping one meal a day with a plant-based option. Breakfast is an easy place to begin—think oatmeal, avocado toast, or smoothies with almond milk.

2. Add, don’t subtract

Instead of focusing on what you’re cutting out, think about what you can add. Try topping your soups with roasted vegetables or pairing them with crusty whole-grain bread. A bowl of lentil soup or vegan ramen can be hearty, satisfying, and completely plant-based.

3. Try plant-based proteins

Beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh are super versatile and easy to cook. Toss them into stir-fries, salads, or soups for a filling, protein-packed meal.

Plant based eating

4. Keep it simple

You don’t have to be a chef to eat plant-based. Stock up on pantry staples like beans, grains, and pasta, and pair them with fresh or frozen vegetables for quick, easy meals.

5. Experiment with Veganuary recipes

January is full of Veganuary inspiration. Try new recipes like hearty grain bowls, curries, or plant-based ramen. You might discover a new favorite dish along the way.

Does one month really make a difference?

Yes! Even one month of plant-based eating can have a meaningful impact. For example, by choosing plant-based meals for 31 days, you can help conserve thousands of gallons of water and reduce carbon emissions—just from your own kitchen. And who knows? You might like it enough to keep some plant-based habits going after January ends.

Plant based eating

The best part is that these small changes are approachable. You’re not giving up foods you love—you’re just trying something new.


Right Foods makes it easy

At Right Foods, we’re here to help make plant-based eating easy, delicious, and accessible. We’ve also made sustainability part of our missionRight Foods sustainability

So when you choose our products, you’re not just nourishing yourself—you’re making a choice that supports the planet.

Plant Based Eating

Let’s make this new year count

You don’t have to do it all at once. Small, thoughtful changes can add up, and plant-based eating is a simple, effective way to start. Whether you’re trying Veganuary for the first time or just looking to eat more plants here and there, every step matters.

Why not make this January the start of something good—for you and the planet? Try a plant-based meal, experiment with new recipes, and take it one day at a time. You might be surprised at how easy (and tasty) it is to make a difference.

Ready to get started? Let’s make this new year one of small, impactful steps—and plenty of great food along the way.