Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health

Happy International Biodiversity Day! This year’s theme focuses on biodiversity as the foundation for our food and health. Currently, 6,000 plant species on our planet have been cultivated for food, yet only nine of them account for two-thirds of all crop production. 

Our current food systems, which focus on large-scale volume over quality, are the greatest drivers of biodiversity loss. The way we grow, transport, consume, and waste food impacts food security and public health. Something has to change.

At Bowery, we’re working everyday to rethink the world’s oldest industry by innovating sustainable, tech-driven methods to democratize access to fresh, local food. 

And guess what? You can be a catalyst for change, too! Head over to the UN Biodiversity’s site to learn about ways you, too, can celebrate and cultivate biodiversity in your everyday life. Here are a few of our favorite tips:

• Buy local foods!
• Promote local and indigenous biodiversity for food and nutrition. 
• Be a conscientious shopper and only purchase what you need, reducing food waste.
• Compost your food scraps.

Celebrate with our Biodiverse Bok Choy Bowl

Below is a recipe developed by Ashton Keefe inspired by the World Wide Fund for Nature’s “Future Foods” initiative, which identified 50 diverse ingredients that celebrate sustainable diets.

Here’s all you need to do: Combine cooked quinoa with Bowery Farming Bok Choy, sesame seeds, flax seeds, yellow/orange tomatoes, roasted broccoli rabe and walnuts. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Enjoy!