Majority of people in the east of England unaware of the impact of meat consumption on global warming, study finds

23 May 2008

Sixty-eight percent of people in the east of England wrongly identify planes, trains and cars as the biggest contributors to global warming, despite the fact that livestock farming generates more greenhouse gases than the entire transport system put together (18% compared with 13.5%), according to new research by The Vegetarian Society.

Commissioned to mark National Vegetarian Week, the research found that nationally only two in ten people (22%) correctly recognised the impact of meat production on global warming, with awareness higher amongst men (29%) than women (18%). Young people aged 16-24, demonstrated the highest level of awareness, with one in three (33%), listing livestock farming as a greater source of greenhouse gases than transport.

The survey also found that forty-five percent of people from the east of England would consider having meat-free days each week to reduce their carbon footprint. Nationally women showed a greater interest in adapting their diets (43%) than men (32%). Women were also more likely to eat meat-free, with almost one in four (23%) already following, or prepared to adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet, compared with just over one in ten men (12%).

Annette Pinner, Chief Executive of The Vegetarian Society, commented, “Vegetarianism is not only a healthy and ethically sound diet, it is a major step to help reduce greenhouse gases, conserve water and conserve land. With climate change making headlines and many people unsure of what they can do to help, giving up meat and cutting back on dairy is a positive choice for you, for the animals and for the world we all share.“

The Tickbox.net survey of 1000 people coincides with National Vegetarian Week, sponsored by Cauldron Foods.

Notes for editors

· For details regarding the Tickbox.net research or National Vegetarian Week contact Su/Caroline on 0161 925 2000 or su@vegsoc.org, mobile 07973 108 165/7, visit www.vegsoc.org/press

· National results from survey: