Cutting down on meat — or giving it up completely — can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve grown up eating it every day. Even when you know that reducing meat and dairy is one of the most powerful ways to lower your carbon footprint, it’s still a big change. Trust me, I’ve been there.

The good news? It doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing right away. Here’s exactly what helped me move from a full-time meat-eater to a meat-free life — and I hope it inspires you too. Why not give a few of these ideas a try and see how you feel?

1. Start with Meat-Free Mondays

Just cutting out meat one day a week can make a real difference. It’s a gentle way to ease into the habit — your body gets used to meals that aren't so heavy, without feeling deprived. Plus, it gives you a chance to experiment with new dishes (even if it's just a cheese sandwich to start with — no judgment!).

2. Cut Out One Type of Meat First

Instead of going cold turkey (pun intended), focus on cutting out just one type of meat. For me, it was duck — something I only ate occasionally anyway — so giving it up felt achievable. You might choose lamb, pork, or anything else that feels like a smaller sacrifice.

Small wins build momentum!

3. Phase Out Red Meat

Red meat, especially beef, has one of the highest carbon footprints of any food. When I cut it out, it wasn’t easy — BBQ season was the toughest — but over time I started feeling healthier and lighter. Tip: if you find it hard to quit all at once, gradually reduce the number of days per week you eat red meat.

Remember: beef production is one of the biggest animal-based producers of CO₂ emissions. Every steak you skip genuinely matters.

4. Stock Up on Meat Alternatives

Find plant-based swaps you actually enjoy. Quorn mince saved me when I gave up red meat — I realised the satisfaction of dishes like spaghetti meatballs was mostly about the sauce, not the meat! Now, swapping in Quorn, lentils, or plant-based meatballs is second nature.

Today's meat alternatives are better than ever, so explore and find what you love.

5. Reintroduce Yourself to Vegetables

If you don’t love vegetables yet, don't worry — you're not alone. I used to hate boiled carrots, but trying them roasted completely changed my mind.

Challenge yourself: every time you skip meat, add a veggie you’re less familiar with. Try new cooking methods: roasting, stir-frying, grilling. You're already making a big lifestyle change — experimenting with a few new vegetables is a small, exciting bonus!

6. Take It Slow and Be Kind to Yourself

The most important advice? Small steps. Changing a lifelong eating habit takes time — your body and mind both need to adjust. There will be new recipes to discover, new tastes to acquire, and some days it will feel easier than others.

But every plant-based meal you eat helps protect the environment, saves animals, and benefits your own health.

You're doing something incredible. Be proud of every step.

Want to Make an Even Bigger Impact?

Reducing your meat consumption is one of the most effective ways to cut your personal carbon emissions. Soon, you'll even be able to log your carbon-saving impact with The Climate App — and inspire friends and family to join you.

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