The International Day of Climate Action, celebrated annually on October 24, is a reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. One way to contribute is by considering how our dietary choices impact the environment. A diet heavy in meat is particularly harmful, as animal farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
Tami Best, a functional dietitian, explains that “57% of the total greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural land use come from animal farming, compared to 29% from plant-based food farming.” Overfishing also poses a serious environmental threat, depleting marine ecosystems. However, rather than completely eliminating meat or seafood, consumers can opt for more sustainable choices.
Katia Demekhina, a nutrition therapist, emphasizes that “the environmental issue lies in how these foods are produced, not necessarily their consumption.” Choosing meat from regenerative farms, where animals graze the land and crops are rotated using organic practices, can help draw down carbon dioxide and reduce overall emissions. Similarly, sustainably sourced seafood helps protect marine resources.
Switching to a plant-based diet is another way to support the planet. Vegan diets, which exclude animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs, have been shown to generate 75% fewer greenhouse gases and require 54% less water than meat-heavy diets, according to a recent Oxford University study. Best highlights that local, organic, and regenerative plant farming further reduces environmental impact by minimizing the energy used for transportation and storage.
Beyond benefiting the environment, plant-based diets are rich in nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which promote digestive health, boost immune function, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Demekhina adds that these diets can also aid in weight management by offering a lower calorie density and making you feel fuller for longer.
However, a plant-based diet doesn’t automatically mean it’s healthy. Vegans may face deficiencies in essential nutrients such as protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iron. It’s important to focus on whole, natural foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains, and consult a nutrition expert to ensure proper supplementation.
To maintain a balanced plant-based diet, Demekhina recommends prioritizing protein from legumes and tofu, incorporating colorful vegetables, choosing healthy fats from sources like avocados and nuts, and focusing on variety to maximize nutrient intake for both personal health and planetary well-being.
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