Did you know that American meat consumption has doubled since 1960? Or that the water needs of livestock are huge, far above those of vegetables or grains? An estimated 1,800 to 2,500 gallons of water go into a single pound of beef. The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization estimates the meat industry generates nearly one-fifth of the man-made greenhouse gas emissions that are accelerating climate change worldwide, far more than transportation. Annual worldwide demand for meat continues to grow, but cutting down on meat consumption once a week can help slow this trend.
Eating less meat can also deliver a wealth of health benefits such as reducing your risk of chronic preventable conditions like cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. Not to mention the financial benefits considering meat often costs more than grains, fruits, and vegetables. There is no need to give up meat altogether, simply reduce your consumption. On the days that you do eat meat, look for locally raised options to further lower your carbon footprint and help the local economy.
You can save precious resources like fresh water and fossil fuel by forgoing meat one day a week. Meatless Monday has a nice ring to it. Read more and get meat-free recipes at http://www.meatlessmonday.com/.