23 May 2008

People in London have the highest awareness of the impact of meat consumption on global warming in the UK, a Vegetarian Society study finds. One in three people (34%) in London correctly identified livestock farming as a bigger contributor to global warming than planes, trains and cars.

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 thirty-five percent of people from London would consider having meat-free days each week to reduce their carbon footprint. While a further twenty-two percent would be willing to try adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet. 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: