Vegetarian Society welcomes government’s wake up call on environmental impact of meat production

The Vegetarian Society today welcomed the Cabinet Office report, Food Matters, as a positive step in addressing the impact of livestock farming on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It highlights, for the first time, compelling evidence that a diet containing less meat and dairy products is not only healthier than current eating habits, but better for the environment[1].

The report concedes that while consumers recognise environmental issues such as food miles and packaging, they are yet to make a link between meat production and global warming. A recent study by the Vegetarian Society also found that almost seven in ten people (68%) were unaware of the links between carbon emissions and the livestock industry.[2]

Annette Pinner, Chief Executive of the Vegetarian Society said: “We are encouraged that the government has finally woken up to the devastating impact of livestock farming on the environment. However, it is hardly surprising that the public is unaware of the link, when the government’s own flagship website, ActonCO2, fails to make a single reference to the carbon impact of a meat-based diet. We now need to ensure that meat and dairy reduction are part of a co-ordinated strategy to reduce our carbon emissions, individually and globally.”

For more information please contact Caroline Chisholm on 0161 925 2000 or caroline@vegsoc.org, mobile 07973 108 167, visit www.vegsoc.org/press

[1] Food Matters, Cabinet Office, July 2008, p.15

[2]Tickbox survey of 1000 people, May 2008