Diet choice has global impact

A United Nations Environment Program report recommends reduced consumption of meat and dairy products to save the world from hunger, fuel shortages and the worst impacts of climate change.

The report, prepared by the International Panel of Sustainable Resource Management, notes that agriculture, particularly meat and dairy production, accounts for 70 percent of global freshwater consumption, 38 percent of total land use and 19 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. They conclude that, just as fossil fuels will be gradually replaced by renewable, pollution-free energy sources like wind and solar power, meat and dairy products in the world’s diet will need to be replaced by vegetables, fruits and grains.

Both shifts are absolutely necessary to reduce production of greenhouse gases and consumption of natural resources and to ensure planetary survival into the foreseeable future: “A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.”

I couldn’t have said it better myself. Adopting a healthful diet of vegetables, fruits and grains – a diet designed to prevent global starvation, while protecting our natural environment and safeguarding personal health – is something each of us can do with our next trip to our supermarket.

Sebastian Granger

Spokane