DID YOU KNOW?
U.S. emissions from livestock and natural gas systems are nearly identical — a surprising and often overlooked environmental reality. [1]
STAY INFORMED
- Livestock agriculture is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for roughly 14.5% of all emissions worldwide. [1]
- The primary GHGs produced by livestock are methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) — all of which trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming. [1]
- Methane is released during digestion (especially from cows) and is 25x more potent than CO₂ in terms of climate impact over a 100-year period. [2]
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Choose Plant-Based Meals More Often
- Even small reductions in meat consumption — especially beef — can significantly lower your carbon footprint. Try “Meatless Mondays” or swapping in legumes, tofu, or grains. [1]
2. Support Sustainable Farming Practices
- Look for local farms that use rotational grazing, regenerative soil practices, and sustainable feed systems. Responsible farming helps reduce emissions and improve land health.
3. Understand the Impact of Your Food Choices
- A pound of beef requires 13 times more greenhouse gases to produce than a pound of plant-based protein. [2]
ENVIRONMENTAL REMINDER
Livestock agriculture feeds the world — but it comes at a cost. Choosing more sustainable options, even part-time, can make a measurable difference in your carbon footprint. Climate change begins on our plates.