Ch 17: Food for Thought
The Environmental Cost of What We Eat
Written and designed by volunteers: Deepthi D., Maryem K., Samuel B., Jodha K., Ayoub R.
The Carbon Footprint of Food
Every meal we enjoy has an environmental cost, and one of the biggest contributors is the carbon footprint of the food we consume. This is the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases emitted during the production, transportation, and processing of food. While plant-based foods have a relatively low carbon footprint, animal products, especially beef, are some of the worst offenders. Raising livestock requires vast amounts of land, water, and energy, all of which generate significant emissions that contribute to climate change.
The Impact of Food Waste
When food goes to waste, the resources used to produce it water, energy, and land are also lost. Throwing away a single meal can mean thousands of liters of water, wasted farmland, and unnecessary energy use. By reducing food waste, we not only save money but also protect the environment and ensure resources are used wisely. Small choices in our daily lives can make a big global impact.
Sustainable Farming Practices
This infographic explains the concept of sustainable farming, which means growing crops and raising animals in ways that protect the environment, save resources, and secure food for the future. It highlights three main examples: crop rotation, which keeps the soil healthy by planting different crops each season; organic farming, which avoids the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers; and agroforestry, where trees are planted alongside crops to improve soil quality and support biodiversity.
How to Make Greener Food Choices
What we eat has a big impact on the environment. Choosing more plant-based meals reduces greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. Buying local food supports sustainable farming and cuts transportation emissions. Reducing food waste saves water, energy, and resources. Small changes in our daily meals can make a big difference for the planet
