Meat production has a significant impact on climate change and is responsible for a large portion of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), livestock production accounts for 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This is more than the entire transportation sector, which includes cars, planes, and ships.
The majority of these emissions come from cows, which produce methane, a gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Cattle also emit large amounts of nitrous oxide, another potent greenhouse gas. The production of feed for livestock also produces emissions, as does manure storage, fertilizers, and the burning of forests to create grazing land.
In addition to greenhouse gas emissions, animal agriculture is responsible for a significant amount of water pollution. The production of animal feed crops requires an excessive amount of fertilizer, which can pollute nearby water sources. Livestock production also produces excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can cause algal blooms in water bodies and can be toxic to humans and other animals.
Reducing meat consumption is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change. Eating less meat can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve water quality, and reduce deforestation. Eating a more plant-based diet can also have a positive impact on health. Therefore, reducing meat consumption is a win-win situation for both the environment and public health.