Eating Less Could Help Save the Planet

A recent study suggests that a significant portion of the global population needs to adjust their eating habits to combat climate change. The research, led by Dr. Juan Diego Martinez, indicates that 44% of people worldwide must change their diets to keep global warming below 2 degrees Celsius.

Key Findings

• Data Analysis: The study analyzed data from 112 countries, covering 99% of global food-related greenhouse gas emissions.
• Income Groups: It divided each country's population into income groups and calculated a food emissions budget for each person.
• Current Impact:
• Half of the global population and 90% of Canadians need to change their diets.
• This number is expected to rise to 90% globally by 2050 due to increasing emissions and population growth.

Food Systems and Emissions

The study highlights that the world's food systems are responsible for over one-third of human greenhouse gas emissions.

• Top 15% Emitters: Contribute 30% of total food emissions, equal to the bottom 50%.
• Wealthy Individuals: The top 15% includes wealthy individuals in high-emission countries like Brazil and Australia.
• Collective Action: The problem is not just for the rich; everyone needs to eat, so everyone can make a difference.

What Can We Do?

The study suggests the following actions:

1. Eat Only What You Need: Reduce food waste to cut emissions, cook less, and enjoy more leftovers.
2. Reduce Beef Consumption: Beef accounts for 43% of food-related emissions for the average Canadian.
3. Vote with Your Fork: Make dietary changes and discuss them to influence politicians and food system policies.

The goal is to make positive changes to our food systems and reduce emissions.