REPLACING 50% OF ANIMAL-BASED FOODS WITH PLANT-BASED OPTIONS CAN REDUCE THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT

The journal Nature Communications published a study in September 2023 suggesting that a 50% reduction in meat and dairy consumption by plant-based alternatives by 2050 could bring benefits for climate and biodiversity. The authors stated that it would contribute to a reduction of up to 31% in greenhouse gases related to agriculture and land use.

The research compared the impacts of different types of diets. As a result, there would be a 12% decrease in agricultural land used for food production. This would favor the reforestation of degraded areas and soil recovery in regions with intense livestock activity.

This change could contribute to a decrease in biodiversity loss from 2.1% to 0.9%. However, if 90% of animal-derived foods are replaced, this biodiversity loss could reverse between 2030 and 2040. Furthermore, the change would reduce global water consumption by 10% and the number of undernourished people by up to 31 million.

The research considered regional variations in impact, taking into account population size, agricultural productivity, and participation in international trade in the agricultural industry.

In China, this change would be responsible for 20% of reductions in water and nitrogen use and the abandonment of 25% of agricultural land. The African continent, on the other hand, shows greater potential for reducing the loss of natural areas, contributing to a global reduction of 37% in land conversion. The sum of this area with Southeast Asia and China would play a crucial role in reducing biodiversity loss.

The researchers highlighted, however, that this dietary transformation could only occur with political interventions and technological innovations.

To reduce one's own consumption of non-vegan foods, a gradual change is appropriate. The Meatless Monday movement, which proposes one day a week without consuming these foods, is a way to encourage trying new recipes.

Trying to gradually reduce the consumption of animal-derived foods is also an option. For example, starting with periods without meat and then eliminating chicken when the routine allows. These dietary changes should be supervised by specialists to ensure they are in accordance with the body's needs.

Investing in products of non-animal origin, such as clothes, personal hygiene items, cosmetics, and perfumery, is a way to contribute to the movement. At Essencial Organics, we work exclusively with 100% natural products, certified by the PETA and Cruelty-Free seals, ensuring that we do not test on animals or use animal-derived ingredients.

We are committed to offering high-quality products aligned with ethical principles of respect for animals. We are excited to help build a world where aromacology and aromatherapy can be fully explored, without compromising fauna and flora.