Meat consumption around the world has grown considerably in the past few decades which has had adverse effects on the environment and essentially our health – maybe more than we realize. It is estimated that meat production alone contributes to more than 14 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, and something needs to be done in order to change the way in which we do things and try and save the planet.
China alone has increased its meat consumption by five times over the past 34 years which is way more than their population has grown, and figures now show that they are responsible for half of the whole world’s pork consumption and more than a quarter of all meat worldwide! But, they have taken steps to try and reduce this and dietary guidelines have been issued to residents to seek to halve the average person’s meat consumption.
MEAT PRODUCTION CONTRIBUTES AN ESTIMATED 14.5 PERCENT TO ANNUAL GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS. THAT’S MORE THAN EMISSIONS FROM EVERY CAR, TRAIN, SHIP AND AIRPLANE COMBINED.
Several other countries worldwide have also come to realize what the effects of meat production and consumption are having on the economy and the environment and have taken steps to try and combat the damage that has already been caused. The United Nations panel last month pleaded with officials to consider introducing a tax on both meat producers and meat sellers.
By reducing the amount of meat that is both produced and consumed, will help the environment tremendously. The greenhouses gasses that are emitted from the process of cattle digestive processes are toxic to the environment, and the methane that is produced and let off into the environment accounts for a third of the world’s methane levels.
Introducing a meat tax in societies is not about limiting people’s choices, it is about finding the right balance between healthy living and sustainability. It is clear that if we carry on as we are, with the United States consuming on average 120 pounds of meat per person annually, compared to 4 pounds in Bangladesh, that we will find ourselves in a very scary place that we are unable to come back from. So, next time you are planning your meals, just have a little think as to all the factors that go into getting that meat onto your plate, and question, is it worth it?
Related Articles;
Eating Less Meat Would Save The World Trillions Of Dollars – FastCoExist
China’s plan to cut meat consumption by 50% cheered by climate campaigners – The Guardian
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