JN JUNIOR: Veganuary, saving paper and lab-grown chicken
Plus: lots of fun activities for heading out and about this month
Genius Jenna says: “Not only is January the first month of the calendar year, but it has also become known as ‘Veganuary’. Veganuary is a yearly challenge that started in 2014, where people are encouraged to try being vegan for the month. Being vegan means not eating any animal products (so no meat, fish, eggs or dairy) but instead eating plant-based foods (vegetables, grains, fruits and nuts). Last year, more than 629,000 people from 228 countries and territories took part in Veganuary, breaking all previous records! While many people choose to go vegan for health reasons or religious beliefs, lots of people also do so because they think it’s better for the planet. Animals eat a lot and take up a lot of resources. By not producing meat, milk, or eggs, a lot of food, land and water can be saved, whereas eating plants uses fewer resources. But being vegan is not for everyone and we need to make sure we are getting lots of nutrients from a variety of food groups for our growth and development. There are lots of other things we can give up to help the environment. I’m going to give up driving with my mum to school and try walk together instead, and I will try not to use plastic bottles. The smallest change can make a huge difference.”
What one thing would you give up to help save the planet?
To help save our planet I would use less paper. I have so many gorgeous notebooks which I really enjoy using but I also have a laptop which I can use to write instead. I don’t think it is necessary for us all to use so much paper. I also think planting trees is really important and if we use less paper, fewer trees will be cut down. Therefore, we will have far more trees, which will help keep our air clean. Chloe Hopkins, 9, North London
Just for Laughs with Ivor Baddiel
How can you tell a someone is a Jewish vegan? They don’t drink milk after not eating meat!
Good News for … chickens in America
Authorities in the USA have approved the sale of chicken grown in a laboratory for the first time. The country’s food and drug administration (FDA) has said that the company Upside Foods can take living cells from chickens and then grow them in a lab, to make a meat product that does not involve killing animals. Singapore is currently the only country where lab-grown meat can be sold but now other countries might too now get the green light. Good news for Israel, which has become the centre of lab-grown meat and alternative protein technologies.
What’s on this month?
If you’re in Manchester this month, head to Van Gogh Alive. The unique family-friendly exhibition that has been touring the UK gives visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves into Van Gogh’s artistry and truly venture into his world, surrounded by a vibrant symphony of light, colour, sound and fragrance. At MediaCity Salford Keys until 27 February. www.vangoghaliveuk.com/mediacity/
Babylon Park, the Israeli-based theme park that launched in London at the end of last year, is one to try. Located in Camden Market, north London, there’s a drop tower, bumper cars, carousels, arcade machines, soft play areas and even a rollercoaster. Plus waffles and ice creams. What’s not to love…?! www.babylonpark.com
One for younger audiences, Burglar Bill is on for one day only at the North London arts depot. Inspired by Janet and Allan Ahlberg’s picture book, the characters are brought to life on stage with an exciting set design, puppets, and original music and songs. Sunday 22 January. www.artsdepot.co.uk
Head to the Southbank to help untangle the Colour Monster’s messy emotions through the wonder of orchestral music at FUNharmonics Family Orchestra with the London Philharmonic Orchestra at a unique concert experience for ages five and over. Royal Festival Hall, 29 January. www.southbankcentre.co.uk
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