Sustainable Nutrition: The Environmental Benefits of Vegan and Vegetarian Choices
摘要
The production of animal-based foods has a huge impact on the environment, especially in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, overgrazing of pasture land by livestock. This calls for the analysis of the environmental sustainability of whole diets, which includes plant-based foods versus meat-based foods and its health benefits which is yet to be fully explored. Fewer studies have been conducted on the regional impact of varying types of animal-derived foods consumed by people. The present study aims to look at the environmental impact of the diets of a specific group of consumers, including those who eat meat, vegetables, and vegan foods. We have surveyed the sample population across different age groups, regions and income groups segments and identified the different diet consumption patterns. Countrywide analysis of food consumptions has been conducted. Animal products, like milk and dairy, were the biggest contributors to the environmental footprint in both meat-eaters and vegetarians. The study shows that switching to a plant-based diet can greatly reduce the carbon footprint on a vegan or vegetarian diet. A model to show the calories and carbon footprint on the given food has been worked upon to guide consumers to plan healthy and environment friendly diets.