Planetary Health Diet Could Slash Global Emissions by 17%
A groundbreaking study, the Planetary Health Diet, suggests that adopting a sustainable eating plan could significantly reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. The EAT-Lancet Commission, led by Dr. Walter Willett and Dr. Johan Rockström, presented this diet in January 2019, highlighting its potential to cut emissions by up to 32.4% in high-income countries.
The Planetary Health Diet, also known as the EAT-Lancet diet, is a flexible, plant-based eating plan that focuses on a diverse intake of foods. This shift could decrease global emissions by 17%, more than twice the emissions of the European Union. Policies targeting high-emission foods and improving agricultural productivity in low-income countries could facilitate this transition.
The food we consume has a substantial impact on the planet's health, contributing to about one-third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. Animal-based products, particularly red meat and dairy, are significant contributors to dietary emissions. However, following the Planetary Health Diet may reduce the risk of premature death by 30%, potentially preventing 15 million premature deaths annually.
While the Planetary Health Diet offers substantial benefits, affordability remains a significant barrier. Over 1.58 billion people worldwide cannot afford this diet, highlighting the need for policies that make sustainable eating accessible to all.
