In the midst of such troubling times, when climate change is at the forefront of political discussion and social concern, it comes as no surprise that scientists are banding together to suggest startling new ultimatums.
The most recent threat to farming industries worldwide comes as leading researchers, climate specialists and scientists have revealed that up to a staggering 90% of meat consumption must be eliminated if we are to save our planet.
The Study
The warning that has made headlines of January media outlets, outlines a new report which insists on a “Great Food Transformation”. The shift, which aims to redefine diets and eating trends has been formulated with the intent of decreasing environmental impact, which leads to climate change and improving general health.
The study suggests a minimum of 50% decrease in “unhealthy” foods, whether that is the consumption of sugars or red meat, or other. While the meat industry has a proven negative effect on the environment, as well as (arguably) our bodies, the consumption of sugars and convenience food is equally detrimental to personal health.
In a modern society when “fast food” and unhealthy eating habits seems to be status quo, the report goes on to insist a 100% increase of healthy foods such as nuts, beans and vegetables could save anywhere from 10.8 million and 11.6 million lives per annum.
Farming Industry
The farming industry has been under fire in recent years, as a cultural and societal shift toward healthy eating and sustainable lifestyles has moved into priority.
Although the impact of meat for consumption farming on our environment has been exposed, and its contribution to climate change is undeniable, the report suggests that new methods such as limited land use, cutting emissions and reducing the use of fertilisers could be a step in the right direction.
One of the co-authors of the report, Professor Tim Lang of City University of London explains, “We need a significant overhaul, changing the global food system on a scale not seen before in ways appropriate to each country’s circumstances.”
Should little be done to kick-start this shift in farming practices, we face undeniable environmental impact, pollution and biodiversity loss.
In Practice
The report suggests a whopping 90% decrease in “unhealthy food” including meat and sugar products. Dairy consumption would, too, be included in this, boasting its own negative impacts on our environment, through its production.
While The Irish Farmers Association insists that Ireland boasts solid sustainable and environmentally-sound food production methods, certain realities of meat and dairy farming speak are undisputable.
What the report boils down to is that a global shift towards healthier, more sustainable eating practices must be adhered to in order to ensure the integrity of our planet, protecting it from catastrophic climate change and the personal health of citizens of humanity for the years to come.