While the idea of going without meat one day a week might send a shiver down the spine of some, the community of Aspen has wholeheartedly embraced it. Meatless Mondays began last week in Aspen with over 20 restaurants on board, as well as the elementary school, hospital and University of Colorado School of Medicine. And they’re not alone. A February 2011 report found that 18 per cent of American households now participate in Meatless Mondays.

So what inspired them to go meatless?

They’ve read The China Study or seen Forks Over Knives and know how much going meatless can improve their health and help prevent diseases. They also know about the environmental impacts of livestock production, and that eating meatless meals is a far more efficient use of resources, reducing water and land use, pollution, soil degradation, deforestation and greenhouse gases.  Did you know livestock produces more greenhouse gases than the entire transport sector? (United Nations, Livestock’s Long Shadow, 2006)

Whistler, it’s our turn to be inspired. Let’s join Aspen and show our commitment to the environment and the health of our community. It’s an easy step to take but the impact is significant. And it’s a great way to discover new restaurants and new recipes. Ask your favourite restaurant to get on board and support Meatless Mondays!

For more information visit meatlessmonday.ca.

Aspen’s Meatless Mondays - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/chris-elam/aspen-co-meatless-mondays_b_871596.html