Animal Agriculture and Water

DID YOU KNOW?

Over 600 gallons of water are required to produce just one hamburger. [1]

STAY INFORMED

  • Water scarcity is becoming a growing global concern, with more regions experiencing drought, depleted reservoirs, and overdrawn aquifers.
  • Animal agriculture is one of the largest consumers of water worldwide. Water is used not only to hydrate livestock but also to grow feed crops and maintain facilities.
  • In the U.S. alone, animal agriculture consumes up to 76 trillion gallons of water annually. [1]
  • By contrast, household water use accounts for just 5% of total consumption. This means dietary choices often outweigh lifestyle conservation efforts. [1]

HELPFUL TIPS

1. Reduce Animal Product Consumption

  • Even modest reductions in meat and dairy intake can dramatically lower your water footprint. Replacing just a few meals per week with plant-based alternatives makes a difference.

2. Choose a More Plant-Based Diet

  • A plant-based diet uses about 1/13th the water of a meat-based diet, making it one of the most effective ways to conserve water. [2]

3. Start with Small Changes

  • Even skipping meat once a day or adopting “Meatless Mondays” reduces demand on water-intensive agriculture. Every meal counts.

4. Think Beyond the Faucet

  • Eating one less hamburger saves the same amount of water as showering for two entire months. [1]

SUSTAINABILITY REMINDER

Water is life — and how we use it matters. By choosing foods with a lower water footprint, we can reduce waste, preserve natural resources, and build a more sustainable future for all.

REFERENCES

  1. Cowspiracy – Environmental Facts
  2. Cowspiracy – Water Use Infographic

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