Protecting the planet via plant-based eating

 

Plant-based eating is beneficial to our health but it also plays an important role in protecting the planet. It is becoming increasingly evident that our food choices have an impact on the environment.  Choosing to transition to an increasingly plant-based diet enables us to significantly reduce our carbon footprint.  This in turn contributes to a more sustainable future. 

Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

The livestock industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.  Cattle farming alone accounts for a significant portion of global emissions.  Choosing an increasingly plant-based diet can reduce the demand for livestock farming and the emissions associated with it.

Conservation of water and land resources:

Raising livestock is water intensive.  By shifting towards increasingly plant-based diets, we can help to conserve water resources and reduce the demand on water supplies.  Plant-based diets also generally require less land for production compared with animal farming.  This allows for the preservation of natural habitats and for biodiversity.

Reduction of deforestation and mitigation of climate change:

The expansion of livestock farming often leads to clearing of forests to create space for grazing and for feed crops.  Deforestation contributes to the loss of biodiversity and results in the release of stored carbon into the atmosphere thereby exacerbating climate change. By choosing an increasingly plant-based diet, we can help to reduce the demand for deforestation and protect vital forest ecosystems.

Conclusion:

By making conscious choices about the foods we consume, we can reduce our environmental impact, conserve resources, and thereby contribute to a more sustainable and resilient planet. Plant-based eating is a conscious choice and powerful way to support both the health of people and the planet.  

Lorna C. Hylledig  EDD., MSPH., RDN., LDN