In the next chapter, we will explore the impact of a vegetarian diet on weight management and the prevention of obesity, an important topic given the global rise in overweight and obesity rates. We will discuss the potential mechanisms by which a plant-based diet can help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and review the latest research on the association between the vegetarian diet and body weight.
Chapter 3: The Impact of vegetarianism on the environment
The global food industry is a major driver of environmental degradation, accounting for roughly 25% of all anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (1). Livestock agriculture, in particular, is a primary source of GHGs, which contribute to climate change. The production of meat and dairy contributes significantly to deforestation, soil degradation, and water pollution. However, adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet can have a positive impact on the environment. In this chapter, we will explore the environmental implications of vegetarianism and veganism and their ethical considerations.
Climate change and greenhouse gas emissions
The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that the livestock sector’s contribution to global warming is approximately 14.5%, higher than transportation. The production of beef is responsible for 41% of livestock’s greenhouse gas emissions, while dairy and other cattle contribute to around 20% (2). In contrast, plant farming is responsible for a much smaller proportion of GHG emissions. Therefore, reducing or altogether eliminating meat and dairy consumption is one of the most effective ways to lower carbon footprint.