Facts matter. Truth matters. Journalism matters.
Salt Lake City Weekly has been Utah's source of independent news and in-depth journalism since 1984.
Donate today to ensure the legacy continues.
As global population surges toward 9.1 billion people by 2050, Western diets rich in meat and dairy products will become unsustainable, according to a U.N. Environment Program report re-leased in May.
The report was prepared by the International Panel of Sustainable Resource Management, drawing on dozens of smaller studies. It notes that agricultural production accounts for 70 percent of global freshwater use, 38 percent of land use and 19 percent of greenhouse gas emissions.
The panel concludes that, just as fossil fuels will be gradually replaced by renewable, pollution-free energy sources like wind and solar power, meat and dairy products in the world’s diet will need to be replaced by vegetables, fruits and grains. Both shifts are absolutely necessary to reduce the production of greenhouse gases and the consumption of natural resources, as well as to ensure planetary survival.
As Americans, we have a special obligation to lead the rest of the world in a healthful diet of vegetables, fruits, and grains—a diet designed to prevent global starvation, while protecting our natural environment and safeguarding personal health. Each of us can start with our next trip to our supermarket.
Simon Lockwood
Salt Lake City
Speaking of ,
-
Walk of Shame, The Lego Movie
New DVD/VOD Tuesday, June 17
- Jun 16, 2014
-
Drinking-Class Zero
Following a night of drinking, Wendy Simpson, 25, walked to a McDonald’s restaurant in West Yorkshire, England, where she was told that the counter was closed and only the drive-through was open but that she couldn’t be served
- Jun 16, 2014
-
How to Train Your Dragon 2
Dragon 2 shows DreamWorks is still willing to be daring
- Jun 13, 2014
- More »
More by City Weekly Readers
-
Feedback from April 15 and Beyond
- Apr 21, 2021
-
Feedback from April 8 and Beyond
- Apr 14, 2021
-
Feedback from April 1 and Beyond
- Apr 7, 2021
- More »
Latest in Letters
Readers also liked…
-
Feedback from April 9 and Beyond
- Apr 15, 2020
-
Feedback from March 11 and Beyond
- Mar 17, 2021
