Here is a topic that some will consider a sensitive issue.  Meat-eating is so ingrained in many societies and many people personal habits that to merely mention the environmental impact of the livestock industry risks treading on ‘sacred cows’ (mixed metaphor intended).

The simple fact is that the livestock industry is a larger contributor to greenhouse gas emissions than transportation.  Here is a report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations entitled, ”Livestock a Major Threat to Environment” for your consideration.

Now this does not mean that you must swear off meat entirely tomorrow, or feel guilty about the meat or poultry that you do eat.  It is just something for you to consider.  If it inspires you to eat less meat, wonderful.  If it should make you think of moving in a vegetarian direction, great.  If it even makes you more aware of the impact of your food choices on the environment, marvelous, since there are many aspects worth considering there.  See also our page on Food.