Summary
This systems modelling study quantifies the air quality, health, and economic benefits of dietary transitions toward plant-based flexitarian, vegetarian, and vegan diets globally. By reducing emissions from animal agriculture—particularly methane and ammonia—such dietary shifts could prevent 108,000–236,000 premature deaths annually and generate USD 0.6–1.3 trillion in economic productivity gains. The analysis highlights dietary change as a potentially valuable mitigation strategy for ambient air pollution, with substantial regional variation in benefits.
UK applicability
The United Kingdom, with intensive dairy and livestock agriculture and high population density, may see health and economic benefits from dietary shifts comparable to those estimated for Europe (9–21% mortality reduction). However, application to UK policy would require granular modelling of UK-specific agricultural and demographic conditions.
Key measures
Premature mortality averted (absolute numbers and percentage reductions); economic output increase (USD trillion); regional mortality reductions for Europe, North America, and Eastern Asia
Outcomes reported
The study modelled reductions in premature mortality and economic gains from dietary shifts toward plant-based diets. Estimated outcomes included global mortality reductions of 108,000–236,000 cases (3–6%) and economic gains of USD 0.6–1.3 trillion (0.5–1.1%).
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