Climate crisis is looming: The Planetary Health Diet as a new answer!

Climate crisis is looming: The Planetary Health Diet as a new answer!

Current food production is a major contributor to the climate crisis: it accounts for around 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new report from the EAT-Lancet Commission. Even with a large-scale energy transition, it will become clear that food systems are hardly able to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. Johan Rockström, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, emphasizes the urgency of transforming food systems for a secure climate system. A good step in this direction could be this Planetary Health Diet which, if widely adopted, could prevent around 15 million premature deaths worldwide each year.

What does this diet include? The Planetary Health Diet relies on a rich variety of foods: lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes, accompanied by a moderate consumption of animal products, while red meat consumption should be limited to a 4-ounce serving per week. This is in line with the recommendations of the EAT-Lancet Commission, which calls for a 53% reduction in non-CO2 greenhouse gases from agriculture, mainly emitted by ruminants. Adjusting diets can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the food sector by up to 15%, the report says.

Role models and demands

The Commission's recommendations are based on the belief that a climate-neutral food system is possible in principle, but requires massive investment and effort. In addition to switching to plant-based diets, the report also calls for reducing food loss and waste and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Loud Black Forest messenger Current agricultural standards are inadequate to maintain planetary boundaries, and supply chains need fundamental reforms.

Another interesting aspect of the report is its prediction that by 2050, virtually everyone could have access to healthy, culturally appropriate foods if nations work together globally. The Commission's vision aims to ensure that 9.6 billion people can eat nutritiously and equitably, without further damaging the environment. CNN reports that a rethinking of food production and distribution is necessary to achieve these goals.

Long-term changes

Food prices could fall by around 3% in such a scenario. At the same time, the Commission is calling for meat and dairy subsidies to be redirected towards plant-based foods and for unhealthy foods to be taxed. Experience shows that resistance from the meat and dairy industries is to be expected, similar to previous reports. A rethink is urgently needed in society, and particularly among the wealthiest 30%, who account for over 70% of the environmental impacts of food production.

A safe and sustainable food system requires not only a change in individuals' eating habits, but also a collective commitment to fair working conditions and the support of small farmers. The EAT-Lancet Commission works on regionally tailored nutritional recommendations to meet the needs of different cultures and populations. The challenge is great, but the potential should not be underestimated - it's entirely up to us to make something happen!