Meals traditionally rich in meat and fish, over-consumption, high use of polluting materials and energy… The Christmas season is difficult for people who care about climate and environmental issues. For Aline, “Christmas with the extended family can be complicated. It’s easier with my parents and brothers, who are a bit more aware. They still eat a little meat, especially because they don’t know how to live otherwise. During lockdown, I suggested several new recipes, and we tried them together. As a result, making a vegetarian meal at Christmas became a challenge!” Cooking vegetarian or vegan recipes and sharing them with loved ones can be a good idea to break stereotypes and show that gourmet alternatives exist.
The question of gifts is also delicate, as Ombeline tells us: “I have 10 nephews and nieces. My godson, for example, loves Spiderman. I try to give him useful gifts like second-hand shoes, but I’m always afraid he’ll think his godmother isn’t much fun because I don’t necessarily give him Spiderman toys. It’s the same for Aline, who has been giving immaterial gifts like show tickets for years.
What’s the next step in making their family more aware of these issues? The two cousins plan to play Climate Fresk with Ombeline’s parents and other relatives!