As Earth Day approaches and talk of mitigating climate change comes to the forefront of the national conversation, we can all get started by eating less meat for a cooler planet.

Eating less meat is a simple solution to reducing the impact of climate change, which is why it's supported in such varied circles as climate scientists, environmental nonprofits, celebrities like Oprah and Paul McCartney, and tens of millions of Americans actively reducing their meat consumption.

Even 3,500 schools and hospitals have joined the meat-free movement by embracing Meatless Monday in their cafeterias.

While we don't know what will happen in 2013 to combat climate change by world leaders, we can take steps for a more sustainable Earth by choosing more meat-free foods. Earth Day 2013, April 22, is as good a day as any to get started.