Summary
This modelling study integrates large-scale agricultural economics (CAPRI model) with atmospheric chemistry (WRF-Chem) to assess the air quality and health co-benefits of a shift towards flexitarian diets in Europe. The authors find that a transition to more plant-based diets would reduce ammonia emissions by 33% in the EU, with substantial reductions in PM2.5 concentrations and associated premature mortality. The economic gains from improved public health substantially offset projected agricultural sector losses, suggesting dietary shifts could help achieve European air quality targets whilst maintaining economic viability.
UK applicability
The findings are directly applicable to the United Kingdom as part of the broader European context, particularly given the UK's participation in similar air quality and public health policy frameworks. UK policymakers and farmers could use these results to anticipate sectoral transitions and design support mechanisms aligned with both air quality and health targets.
Key measures
Ammonia emissions reduction (%), annual mean PM2.5 concentrations, premature mortality rates, economic costs and benefits to agricultural sector
Outcomes reported
The study quantified the reduction in ammonia emissions and premature mortality rates from a shift to flexitarian (plant-based) diets across Europe, using integrated agricultural and atmospheric modelling. Economic benefits from improved air quality and human health were compared against agricultural sector losses.
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