Food production is a key contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately a third of total human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. A study suggested some simple substitutions—such as choosing a chicken burrito instead of beef—may be a valuable starting point for addressing diet’s impact on climate. As an added bonus, these same small changes may also benefit health.
The researchers used dietary intake data from over 7,700 U.S. children and adults to identify simple, actionable ways to replace higher-carbon foods in the diet with lower-carbon options. They then simulated the potential impact of these substitutions on dietary carbon emissions and diet quality. They concluded that, if everyone consumed lower-carbon substitutes in place of a higher-carbon food (such as choosing chicken over beef), the total dietary carbon footprint in the U.S. would be reduced by more than 35 percent and overall dietary quality would increase by as much as 10 percent.
Eating more fruits, vegetables and legumes and less red and processed meats (especially meats from ruminant animals like cows and sheep) can reduce both an individual’s personal carbon footprint from food production and their risk of diet-related diseases. This study suggests small changes may be easier to implement than a major diet overhaul, which is challenging long-term.