Vegan lifestyles have dominated social media, and efforts to bring forth conversations about sustainable diets and healthy living attributed to veganism have recently become all the rage. According to the United Nations, almost 15% of all man-made greenhouse gas emissions come from farmed livestock: which includes the raising of cows, chickens, and other animals that are used for meat consumption. The combined production of both meat and dairy products is responsible for a majority of the American carbon footprint as well. So, what alternatives are there to regular diets that include meat, that can also help reduce our carbon footprint? Veganism is an option for a very health-forward lifestyle, that also helps in regard to more sustainable living. One does not need to move to be completely vegan in all aspects in order to reduce their carbon footprint. Across the United States, many programs, organizations, and campuses have introduced the idea of Meatless Mondays, in which during one day of the week, people limit their consumption of meat, dairy, and other animal by-products. As a result, carbon emissions are reduced, and so does water waste. The consumption of meat and its production also largely affects deforestation, and land use, and can contribute to the loss of biodiversity. Addressing food production in small steps like this can lead to big changes over time. If everyone went vegan, according to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, food-related emissions would drop by 70%!

Sources:

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-would-world-look-if-everyone-went-vegan