Nature Food
, delves into the possibility of feeding the global population nutritiously while staying within planetary boundaries. Scientists considered factors like CO2 emissions, water and land use, and the health impact of different diets. Analyzing over 100,000 diet variations, they concluded that a global shift in food consumption is essential.
“The global shift requires political action at the top level, while the individual shift will be much easier if we have better guidance and frameworks that support sustainable choices,” says Caroline H. Gebara, postdoc at DTU Sustain and lead author of the study.
The study offers some specific figures, answering the question of “how much less?”
“Most people now realise that we should eat less meat for both environmental and health reasons. But it’s hard to relate to how much ‘less’ is and whether it really makes a difference in the big picture. Therefore, based on the planetary boundaries, we have calculated a concrete figure — 255 grams of poultry or pork per week — which you can actually visualise and consider when you are standing in the supermarket,” she says.
That translates to roughly two chicken breasts a week. Red meat, specifically beef and lamb, poses a greater challenge. The study suggests that even moderate amounts exceed the planet’s regenerative capacity.
However, the research also highlights the flexibility of sustainable diets. Pescetarian, vegetarian, and vegan diets are naturally sustainable, but even omnivores can make responsible choices. The key is balance. Enjoy cheese, eggs, or fish, but do so in moderation, ensuring that the rest of your diet is healthy and sustainable.
The findings send a clear message to US, China, and EU. For US and China: As the largest consumers of meat, adopting guidelines for individuals of how much meat is sustainable is crucial to reduce the amount of CO2 emitted into the atmosphere. For EU: Regulatory trends may follow these findings. The findings of this study may influence future EU policies regarding food production and consumption. Stricter environmental standards for meat production and promoting plant-based alternatives may become prominent topics.
This study empowers consumers with actionable information. It’s not about extremes; it’s about making informed choices. So next time you’re at the supermarket, remember the 255-gram rule and consider the broader impact of your food choices.