Reducing your meat consumption is beneficial for both your health and the planet.

We can pursue environmental sustainability and improve animal welfare by decreasing our intake of meat and dairy products. As a passionate food enthusiast and a proud Hungarian, I have made the conscious decision to limit my meat consumption— specifically avoiding beef and pork— out of concern for our planet and its diverse wildlife. I encourage you to consider adopting a healthier diet as well. What is good for you can also be good for the environment.

I hope to see a future where we no longer need to slaughter billions of animals each year and can eliminate the industrial farming systems that significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

A report from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicates that the livestock sector generates more greenhouse gas emissions than all forms of transportation combined, accounting for 18% of carbon dioxide emissions and up to half of all methane emissions. Methane is particularly concerning as it is 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide and greatly contributes to global warming. Additionally, livestock farming is the primary source of water pollution from nitrates, phosphates, and pesticides, which threatens biodiversity both on land and in the seas. Moreover, agricultural activities such as deforestation and wetland drainage for farming are major contributors to habitat destruction and reduced wildlife habitats (FAO).

Below are some examples of the healthy and planet-friendly dishes I often make or use.

Fig. 1. Home made Vegetarian Dishes.

Fig. 2. Some examples of my healthy, and planet friendly dishes I often make or use.

Sources:

http://www.fao.org/3/y3557e/y3557e11.htm

Book: Billion Dollar Burger by Chase Purdy