For the majority of my life, I have steered clear of red meats and have eaten poultry and fish. Once I learned more about factory farming and how inhumane the industry is, I have been gradually progressing to a plant-based diet. I do “meatless” meals about 75 percent of my diet and hope to encourage others to do the same.  

By ditching meat, you naturally incorporate your meals with more veggie-dense, nutritious sides and ingredients. Some examples are veggie stir-fry, eggplant parmesan, five-bean chili, sweet potato and black bean tacos, salads, etc.

The best advice I can give others who want to try "Meatless Mondays" is to make it fun, do it with your family and try recipes you have never done before! Also, give the meatless protein options a try, “impossible” burgers are sold everywhere now and they are closer to the real deal than anything else. Learn more about getting protein from your veggies like broccoli, chickpeas, mushrooms and spinach.

I got involved with CFAEP early in my career because of a recommendation from another member. It was a way to connect with other professionals and learn about different environmental issues that affect Central Florida/the Environment. I appreciate the opportunity to help preserve some of Central Florida’s great natural resources for future generations to enjoy.

I urge people to get involved by joining local Environmental Organizations, such as CFAEP. CFAEP strives to give back to the community by members volunteering their time at events, such as trash cleanups, invasive plant species removals and creating oyster mats to restore Florida’s oyster bars.