Global greenhouse gas emissions from animal-based foods are twice those of plant-based foods

Summary

This 2021 global lifecycle assessment analysis, published in Nature Food, synthesises emissions data across animal-based and plant-based food production systems. The study reports that animal-based foods generate approximately twice the greenhouse gas emissions of plant-based alternatives on a lifecycle basis. The work contributes quantified evidence to food systems climate mitigation discussions and dietary shift scenarios.

UK applicability

These global comparative data are relevant to UK policy frameworks on sustainable food systems and net-zero commitments, though UK-specific farm management practices, feed sources, and supply chain structures may create variation from global averages. The findings support evidence-based dietary guidance and food procurement strategies in UK institutional and public health contexts.

Key measures

Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions intensity (likely in kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogramme of food or per calorie); comparative emissions ratios between animal-based and plant-based food groups

Outcomes reported

The study quantified and compared lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions across animal-based and plant-based food groups at the global scale. The analysis provides emissions intensity metrics for different food categories to inform understanding of dietary and food system climate mitigation potential.

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