Plant-Based Protein is an Environmental “Game Changer”

Replacing meat with plant-based proteins nets immense environmental savings, according to a study published in the journal Sustainability. “This is proven by the first-ever comprehensive [life cycle assessment] of a whole range of food choices that clearly shows that the highest environmental impact savings lie in the displacement of livestock by plant[s] as a source of protein.”

Recognizing tremendous variance in the effects between meat and plant foods on the environment, researchers from the United Kingdom and Mexico analyzed the impacts of multiple foods on 15 relevant categories. Their conclusion was that “livestock is the main driver of climate change impact”, and that plant-based diets can mitigate this effect. The researchers explained that consuming even modest amounts of beef, for example, wields massive global warming potential, equivalent to driving a dozen miles per day in a modern compact car. 

“The analysis clearly demonstrates that the highest environmental impact saving lies in the displacement of livestock by plant-based (beans and lentils) for protein sourcing.” Accordingly, the authors deemed the shift from livestock protein to plant-based protein is an environmental “game changer.”

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