Sustainable Diets: The Connection Between Food Choices and Climate Change

Our dietary choices have far-reaching impacts on both our health and the environment. What we choose to consume can significantly influence the wellbeing of both ourselves and the planet.

Every step that food goes through from growing to disposal can lead to the emission of harmful greenhouse gases, ultimately causing negative effects on the climate. Interestingly, nearly a third of all human-created greenhouse emissions are linked to food. A significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions are generated by agricultural practices and land use changes. Reducing them could go a long way in mitigating our climate crisis.

Calculating the climate impact of food is essential to understanding how much greenhouse gases are being emitted. This emission intensity is measured in kilograms of “carbon dioxide equivalents”, which includes all types of gases, per kilogram of food, per gram of protein or even per calorie.

Animal-based foods tend to be associated with the most greenhouse gas emissions, whereas plant-based foods tend to have lower greenhouse gas intensities. It’s still important to follow a balanced diet but you can do things like eating more plant-based meals, cooking sustainable recipes, cut down on your food waste and shopping with reusable bags.

A Cleaner Australia: The Impact of Clean Up Australia Day on the Environment and Wildlife

We all must do our part if we are to mitigate Australia’s environmental challenges for the long-term. Taking action now is essential for sustaining our natural resources.

Clean Up Australia, one of the most recognised and respected environmental organisations in the country, has successfully encouraged Australians to take real action in protecting their environment for over 30 years! What’s more, their annual Clean Up Australia Day has become a nationwide event with massive community participation.

As Australia’s waste challenges continue to grow the crisis has shown us the importance of embracing a circular economy – where nothing is wasted and everything is a resource. It’s time to take action and implement sustainable solutions, creating a bright future for generations to come.

Australia is facing an alarming plastic waste problem. Around 100 kg of plastic per person is produced each year, and only 13% of the waste is recovered, with 84% ending up in landfill. We must do more to reduce our plastic footprint and create a more sustainable future.

Alarmingly, 130,000 tonnes of plastic is collected from the marine environment each year which represents a significant environmental hazard. This emphasises the need to reduce our dependence on single-use plastics and adopt better waste management practices.

We must act now and strive to reduce the use of plastic in our daily lives. If not, by 2025 it is estimated that 99% of all seabirds on our planet will have consumed plastic debris. We can make a difference if we take the necessary steps today.

What actions can you take to reduce these statistics? We need to refuse plastic packaging, reduce our waste, reuse, recycle and compost.

We need to be more conscious of how we use the resources we already have and utilise them in a way that helps us prevent environmental pollution and waste overflow. Let’s make sure our resources are recycled back into the circular economy and not going to waste.

A Beginners Guide to Meditation

Are you new to meditation and wondering where to start? Or perhaps you’ve tried meditation before but have struggled to stick with it? If so, you’re not alone. Meditation can be a challenging practice, especially for beginners. But it is also a deeply rewarding one, with numerous benefits for both the mind and body.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that there is no “right” way to meditate. Meditation is a personal practice, and what works for one person may not work for another. That being said, there are some general guidelines that can be helpful for beginners.

One of the most important things to consider when starting a meditation practice is finding a comfortable and quiet place to sit or lie down. It can be helpful to choose a location where you will not be disturbed, and to make sure that you are comfortable and warm enough. You may also want to consider using props, such as a meditation cushion or blanket, to help you get comfortable.

Next, it’s time to focus on your breath. Many people find it helpful to start their meditation practice by simply paying attention to their breath. This can be as simple as focusing on the sensation of the breath as it moves in and out of the body. You may find it helpful to count your breaths, or to focus on a mantra or word to help you stay present.

It’s important to remember that meditation is not about clearing the mind or achieving a state of “blankness.” Rather, it is about cultivating awareness and acceptance. You will inevitably have thoughts and distractions during your meditation practice, and that’s okay. When this happens, simply acknowledge the thought and gently redirect your attention back to your breath.

One of the biggest challenges for beginners is sticking with their meditation practice. It’s important to be patient with yourself, and to remember that meditation is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. You may find it helpful to set aside a specific time each day for your meditation practice, and to try to be consistent with your practice. You may also want to consider finding a meditation group or class to help you stay motivated.

Finally, it’s important to remember that meditation is not a quick fix or a magic solution. It is a journey, and the benefits of meditation will unfold over time. With patience, dedication, and an open mind, you can develop a rich and rewarding meditation practice that will bring numerous benefits to your mind and body. So why wait? Take the first step on your meditation journey today!

Unplug and Explore: Weekend Adventure Hikes for a Digital Detox

Are you looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing and take you out of your comfort zone? Then why not try one of our favourite hikes! From easy strolls to challenging treks, we have something for everyone. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned hiker, these hikes will give you the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in Queensland. So grab your backpack and prepare for an exciting weekend adventure!

Picnic Point

The Picnic Point circuit in Toowoomba is a scenic hike that offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The hike takes you through lush greenery, past cascading waterfalls, and along the edge of the escarpment, providing a glimpse of the Great Dividing Range and the valley below. The walk starts at the base of Picnic Point and winds its way up to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Brisbane city in the evening. Hikers of all abilities can find suitable trails for their skill level, allowing them to experience the joy of hitting the trails! The trails are also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure. The parklands are an excellent place to spend the day with family and friends, as they offer a playground, BBQ areas, picnic spots and restrooms. It’s the perfect location for an enjoyable day out with your loved ones.

Mt Ngungun

Mount Ngungun, located in the Glass House Mountains National Park is a popular hiking destination. The trail to the summit of the mountain is a moderate hike, with a distance of 2.8km return and an elevation gain of 250m. Embark on the trail up in the eucalyptus forest and witness breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and valleys that will leave you mesmerised! The summit offers panoramic views of the Glass House Mountains and the Sunshine Coast. Hikers who venture up the mountain can have the chance to observe a variety of birds and other wildlife that inhabit the area!

Buderim Falls

Buderim Falls is a beautiful waterfall located on the Sunshine Coast. The falls are located in Buderim Forest Park, which home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. The park features well-maintained walking trails that take visitors through lush rainforest, past cascading waterfalls, and along the picturesque Obi Obi Creek. The walk to the falls is relatively easy and takes about 30 minutes one way. Visitors can take a dip in the cool, clear water, relax on the rocks, or have a picnic.

Mt Coot-Tha Tracks

Mount Coot-tha is a popular hiking and biking destination located in Brisbane, Australia. It offers a variety of tracks that cater to different skill levels, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes. The most popular track is the Summit Track, which takes you to the summit of Mount Coot-tha (elevation of 710m) and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The trail is well-maintained and takes about 2 hours to complete. Another popular track is the J C Slaughter Falls Track, which takes you to the base of the falls, where you can enjoy a swim in the cool, clear water. The tracks are suitable for hikers, bikers and runners and are open all year round with toilet and picnic facilities too!

Noosa National Park

Noosa National Park is a popular hiking destination located in Noosa. The park offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes. The most popular trail is the Coastal Track, which takes you along the coast and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes like the fairy pools and each of the bays. The trail is in pristine condition, perfect for a leisurely stroll lasting approximately two hours. Enjoy the peaceful serenity of nature while exercising and soaking up the gorgeous views!