Fertilizing feed for animals produces nitrous oxide emissions, a greenhouse gas 300 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. When animals eat this feed and produce manure, it generates methane emissions, which are 80 times more powerful than CO2. Plowing up grassland and forest to grow feed for animals also releases carbon from soil into the atmosphere. By contrast, plant-based and other alternative proteins produce fewer greenhouse gases and require less land.

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Guest articles from Culinary Nutritionist and Author Stefanie Sacks

Stefanie Sacks is a Culinary Nutritionist and Author of “What the Fork Are You Eating?” exploring the link between a healthier diet and a healthier environment. She provides straightforward advice and encouragement to anyone looking to improve their nutrition and protect the planet.

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Raising thousands of livestock in close confinement requires huge open pits of manure, urine and other waste. People living nearby can become overwhelmed by the stench and may suffer from respiratory problems and have a greater risk of death from serious disease.  

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