After February’s dry month called ‘Tournée Minérale’, where people are encouraged to pause their alcohol consumption, March will see the launch of the Veggie Challenge.
For a month, meat lovers can explore a reduced-meat or meat-free diet, promoted by ProVeg Belgium. The global NGO aims to replace 50% of animal products with plant-based foods by 2040. The objectives are to save animal lives, reduce CO2 emissions, and conserve resources like water and farmland. To achieve these goals, ProVeg Belgium is organising the sixth edition of the “Veggie Challenge”.
The challenge offers flexibility, encouraging participants to eat less meat, try vegetarianism, or adopt veganism by providing recipes and tips for replacing animal products. An app helps plan menus and create shopping lists.
This year, the focus is on universities and higher education institutions because “young people play a key role in the transition to more sustainable eating.” However, canteens often lack sufficient plant-based options. By involving students and staff, institutions create a collective dynamic and prepare future generations to adopt health and planet-friendly habits. Around fifteen universities and colleges, all Dutch-speaking, are taking part in the campaign.
Additionally, ten cities and municipalities, including Forest, Jette, Saint-Gilles, and the City of Brussels, will encourage their residents to take on the challenge. Flemish actors Tijmen Govaerts and Saïd Boumazoughe will be the ambassadors for this sixth edition.
Last year, some 5,800 Belgians swapped meat for more greens in their meals during March, according to ProVeg Belgium’s figures.
