A survey reveals scientists' push for drastic reductions in meat and dairy to meet climate targets.
Kenny Torrella reports for Vox.
In short:
- Scientists call for global livestock emissions to peak by 2030 to stay within the Paris Agreement's climate goals.
- The biggest reductions need to happen in wealthier nations, which are the main producers and consumers of meat and dairy.
- Despite the consensus on the need for change, rising meat consumption and lack of policy action suggest targets will be missed.
Key quote:
"We need to see major changes in livestock production and consumption — really deep and rapid changes over the next decade."
— Helen Harwatt, environmental social scientist
Why this matters:
The push to reduce meat and dairy consumption is not just about climate change; it's about rethinking our diets for a sustainable future. This discussion ties into larger debates on how our food choices affect the planet, pointing to a need for significant dietary shifts in countries with high consumption rates to combat global warming and foster a healthier environment.
Op-Ed: The outsized role processed food plays in our health and environment.
