The key to lower CO2 emissions and a more sustainable future
Find out how plant-based diets reduce CO2 emissions and help protect the planet. Join a sustainable lifestyle today!
Food production has a major impact on greenhouse gas emissions, with livestock production being one of the biggest polluters. Switching to a plant-based diet can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and help protect the environment. In this article, we look at why a plant-based diet is a greener choice and how each of us can contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
Livestock production is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimating that it is responsible for approximately 14.5% of global emissions. This includes emissions of methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide from livestock farming, feed production, transport and processing of animal products. Methane, which is produced during the digestion of ruminants such as cows, is particularly problematic because it has a much higher heat-trapping capacity than carbon dioxide.
In addition, the production of meat and dairy products requires vast amounts of natural resources. For example, it takes up to 15 000 litres of water to produce 1 kg of beef, which includes water for watering the animals, growing the feed and other processes. Similarly, land consumption for livestock production is enormous - pastures and fields for growing fodder occupy approximately 80% of the world's agricultural land, even though animal products account for only 18% of humanity's total caloric intake.
Deforestation is another major problem associated with livestock production. Large areas of rainforest, particularly in the Amazon, are being cleared to make way for grazing land or the cultivation of soya, which serves as fodder for livestock. This process not only destroys biodiversity and threatens thousands of species of plants and animals, but also reduces the planet's ability to absorb carbon dioxide, which further contributes to climate change.
In addition, livestock production causes water and soil pollution. The fertilisers and pesticides used in growing feed, as well as the waste from livestock, often end up in rivers and lakes, leading to eutrophication and the death of aquatic organisms. This kind of pollution has a devastating impact on ecosystems and threatens the quality of water for human consumption.
All in all, livestock production represents a significant environmental burden with far-reaching consequences for the climate, natural resources and biodiversity. Switching to a plant-based diet and reducing the consumption of animal products may be one of the most effective ways to mitigate these negative impacts and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Livestock production:
14.5%
(global emissions, including methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide)
Transport:
14%
(emissions from cars, planes, ships and other means of transport)
Industry:
21%
(production of cement, steel, chemicals and other industrial processes)
Crop production:
1-2%
(emissions associated with crop production, including fertiliser use and transport)
.Practical tips for reducing emissions through diet
Tip 1: Start with one vegan day a week
Implementing a "Meatless Monday" is a simple and inexpensive way to start reducing your carbon footprint. This small step can have a surprisingly big impact. According to studies, one vegan day a week can save up to 8kg of CO2 per person, equivalent to the emissions produced by driving a car for approximately 35 kilometres.
In addition to the environmental benefits, this approach allows you to discover new tastes and recipes that can enrich your diet. For example, try simple vegan dishes such as legume salads, vegetable curries or pasta with a nut-based sauce. Gradually introducing vegan days will help you naturally transition to more sustainable eating habits without feeling overwhelmed.
Tip 2: Prioritise local and seasonal foods
Long-distance food imports are one of the main sources of CO2 emissions in the food industry. Tropical fruits, such as bananas or avocados, often travel thousands of miles before they reach your table. This process involves not only transportation, but also storage and refrigeration, which further increases the environmental burden.
Buying local and seasonal food is a great way to reduce emissions associated with transportation. Visit farmers markets or support local farmers who offer fresh produce grown in your area. In addition, seasonal foods are often tastier and more nutritious because they are harvested at optimal ripeness. For example, in the summer you can enjoy fresh strawberries and tomatoes, while pumpkins and apples are ideal in the fall.
Tip 3: Minimise food waste
Food waste is a global problem that not only increases CO2 emissions but also represents a huge waste of resources such as water, energy and land. Millions of tonnes of food are wasted every year, which has a negative impact on the environment and the economy.
One of the most effective ways to minimise waste is to plan meals ahead. Create a weekly menu and buy only what you really need. Also learn to use leftovers - for example, vegetable peelings can be used to make homemade stock and overripe fruit for smoothies or baking. Another tip is to store food properly to extend its shelf life. For example, herbs can be stored in the fridge in a jar of water, while potatoes and onions should be stored in a dry, dark place.
How a plant-based diet relates to veganism
Veganism as a path to sustainability
Veganism is one of the most effective ways to contribute to the sustainability and protection of our planet. Switching to a plant-based diet not only significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, but also helps to protect biodiversity and conserve natural resources such as water and soil.
Switching to a plant-based diet could free up huge amounts of land that could be used to restore natural ecosystems or to grow food for direct human consumption. Veganism thus represents a key step towards a more sustainable food system that respects the limits of our planet.
Veganism thus represents a holistic approach to lifestyle that combines ecological, ethical and health aspects. Every step towards a plant-based diet, whether it is a reduction in meat consumption or a complete switch to veganism, has a positive impact on the planet, animals and our own health.
