Meat and dairy have a large impact on climate change, with livestock accounting for about 14.5% of the world’s greenhouse gases each year.  That’s roughly the same amount as emissions from all cars, trucks, airplanes, and ships in the world combined. 

By making small adjustments to your daily food choices, you have the power to help save the planet — starting with what’s on your plate. It’s not the whole story, but it can make a significant impact.  

Let this chart by the Environmental Working Group showing various foods and comparative climate impact be your guide to selecting foods with lower carbon footprints.  Did you know you can eat at least 6 times the amount of chicken for the same climate impact as the same amount of beef?  Even little changes like shifting away from beef can make a big difference. 

Focus on plant-based foods like beans, grains and soy.  Look online for meatless recipes that appeal to you.  Make ‘Meatless Monday’ a family tradition for a start.  Save the recipes that are popular with family members to create a rotating menu of vegetarian dishes. With a well stocked pantry, pulling together a Meatless Monday will be quick and easy.

Hard to cut animal products cout ‘cold turkey’? Consuming less red meat and dairy has the biggest impact--start with beef, lamb, and cheese.  Chicken, eggs, pork and mollusks are more sustainable choices because they have lower carbon footprints to produce than red meat and dairy.  Meat alternatives are available that will substitute for meat in a favorite family recipe. 

Like any good ‘diet’, consider the commitment to eating fewer animal products a lifestyle change that you can maintain over the long run. Go at your own pace but don’t be afraid to challenge yourself, and remember the benefits you are deriving for not only the planet, but for your own health.