The production of plant-based (vegan) foods produce significantly lower amounts of greenhouse gases than other diets. The average American diet produces an extra 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent greenhouse gasses. (Since methane and nitrous oxide are produced at lower levels but are stronger greenhouse gasses, they are normalized to carbon dioxide). Interestingly, both red meat- and fish-based diets were the worst greenhouse gas producers. This is mainly because many fish are harvested in a non-sustainable manner. See article.

I love this study! We all knew that vegetarianism is best for the planet, but now here is quantitative evidence that meat-based diets have a significant impact on climate change.

Another factoid in this article, did you know that the average American consumes 3,774 calories a day! Jesus F. Christ, no wonder we’re fat! On that note, I imagine that the effect of the vegan diet on greenhouse gas emissions is even larger, because this study assumes that all diets contain 3,774 calories. I seriously doubt that most vegans eat that much, unless they’re eating raw sugar and french fries all day. (I mean, you do see some fat vegans from time to time.)

Lately, I’ve been thinking of cutting out bread and cheese, which would make me essentially vegan (and hopefully 5-10 pounds lighter). This is just another great encouragement to eat fewer animal-based foods!