On November 1, The Independent,a leading newspaper in the United Kingdom, published an article by Consumer Affairs Correspondent Martin Hickman commenting on the new report from the US-based Worldwatch Institute.

The Independent cited the report’s revised calculations finding that livestock is responsible for at least 51% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which is far more than the 18% previously estimated by the United Nations.
It went on to highlight similarly held positions by public figures such as vegetarian Chairman of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Dr. Rajendra Pachauri, who has called lower meat consumption “the most attractive opportunity.”

The article also quoted climate and economics expert Lord Stern of Brentford, UK, who more recently affirmed meat’s heavy carbon footprint and waste of the world’s resources.

The review concluded by sharing a statement from Justin Kerswell, campaign manager for vegetarian group Viva!, who said, “The case for reducing consumption of meat and dairy products was already imperative based on previous UN findings.

Now it appears to have been proven that the environmental devastation from livestock production is in fact staggeringly more significant…. It is essential that attention is fully focused on the impact of livestock production by all global organizations with the power to affect policy.”  

We thank journalist Martin Hickman and The Independent for this thoughtful review of a highly relevant study, one that clearly indicates that change of diet is a priority to halt climate change. May more people and leaders be informed of such findings and act swiftly while there is still time.

Supreme Master Ching Hai has often cited the dire consequences of meat consumption and the urgent need to halt it, as during a June 2008 videoconference with our Association members in London, England.


Reference
http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/climate-change/meat-creates-half-of-all-greenhuse-
gases-1812909.html