The Link Between Meat and Climate Change
The impact of meat production on our planet is catastrophic.
Meat Production Warms the Planet
Global warming is an existential threat of historic proportions. Livestock farming is a major source of greenhouse gases, particularly methane and nitrous oxide. Methane is released during the digestive processes of ruminant animals such as cows and sheep, while nitrous oxide is emitted from manure and the use of synthetic fertilizers on feed crops. Both of these gases have a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the livestock sector is responsible for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which is more than the entire transportation sector.
The leading destroyers of the Amazon rainforest are beef farmers. These farmers and ranchers are cutting the rainforest at an epic scale in order to create grazing lands for cattle or fields for soybeans, which grow well in the region and are used to feed cows (not people). Destroying the rainforest–via logging or burning–emits carbon as well as limiting the ability to pull carbon from the atmosphere. (photo is from The Guardian)
Beef is Killing the Amazon
The expansion of meat production is a leading cause of deforestation, particularly in the Amazon rainforest. The Amazon, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” plays a crucial role in regulating the global climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. However, vast areas of this vital ecosystem are being destroyed to make way for cattle ranching and the cultivation of feed crops like soybeans. Brazil is the largest exporter of beef in the world, and much of this beef comes from cattle raised on deforested land in the Amazon.
Cattle ranching is responsible for approximately 80% of deforestation in the Amazon. Forests are cleared through burning and logging, which releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide stored in trees and soil, contributing to climate change. The destruction of these forests also results in the loss of biodiversity, threatening countless species of plants and animals that rely on the Amazon for their habitat.
Meat Wastes Water at a Massive Scale
Meat production is highly water-intensive. Producing a kilogram of beef, for instance, requires approximately 15,000 liters of water when accounting for all aspects of production, including feed crop irrigation, drinking water for the animals, and processing. In contrast, plant-based foods typically require far less water. This significant water use places a strain on freshwater resources, especially in regions already facing water scarcity. The excessive use of water in meat production can lead to the depletion of aquifers and reduced water availability for other purposes, such as drinking and irrigation for food crops.
Meat Production Pollutes Water, Air, Soil, Everything
Meat production also contributes to various forms of pollution. Runoff from livestock farms and feedlots often contains nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from manure and fertilizers, which can contaminate waterways and lead to eutrophication—a process where water bodies become overly enriched with nutrients, causing dense plant growth and the depletion of oxygen. This can result in dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive. Additionally, the heavy use of antibiotics in animal agriculture to promote growth and prevent disease can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant threat to human health.
Cattle ranching is responsible for approximately 80% of deforestation in the Amazon. Forests are cleared through burning and logging, which releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide stored in trees and soil, contributing to climate change. The destruction of these forests also results in the loss of biodiversity, threatening countless species of plants and animals that rely on the Amazon for their habitat.
Easy Ways to Reduce Meat Consumption
Here are some simple and effective methods to cut back on meat and helping to save the planet.
Choose Plant-Based Alternatives
Try replacing meat with plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu.
Reduce Your Consumption
You don’t have to give up meat entirely, but cutting back can greatly reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change.
Minimize Food Waste
Food waste contributes to the negative impact of meat production.
Graphic Representation
Learn about the disastrous effects of meat production on the planet in this infographic section.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
150 M
Water Usage
2.5 B
Pollution
4 M
Deforestation
700 K
Organizations and Companies That Are the Biggest Bad Actors in Meat
Boycott meat everywhere, but especially these companies that have a reputation for being the most destructive and reckless when it comes to environmental and worker safety.
