- The Greenhouse Hamburger
Summary-AVID Article Format
- Our meat was not being regulated as being a source of adverse effects towards the environment
- Causes more greenhouse gases that transportation and industry
- Contributes 14-22 percent of 36 billion tons of CO2 world production every year
- A patty of meat releases as much greenhouse gas as driving a 3000 lbs car 10 miles
- Externalities contribute to the greenhouse gas used for meat production
- Susan Subak found that cows emit 2.5-4.7 oz of methane for each pound of beef, equals 3.6-6.8 lbs of CO2
- Also requires large amount of feed, pound of beef protein needs 10 lbs of plant protein
- CAFO producing 1 lb of beef emits 14.8 lbs of CO2, 3.8 lbs CO2 for pork, 1.1 lbs CO2 for chicken
- Improve waste management, farming practices, eat locally produced food, eat less meat
Summary
CO2 is usually known to be prevalent in sources such as industry and car emissions, but did you know that your meat takes even more greenhouse gases to produce and ship than these two? Cattle takes a substantial amount of feed, methane, and CO2 to raise; A pound of meat that is raised by a CAFO can emit as much as 14.8 pounds of CO2. Multiply that 14.8 pounds by the cumulative weight of all cattle raised in a CAFO, and you have an answer that should be reduced. These emissions can be reduced, however. Purchasing locally-raised food and eating less meat can contribute to less emissions, and industries can improve waste management and farming practice to produce less emissions in the beginning.
Reflection
I love meat, but if I had to limit my meat intake in order to save the world, I would do it. I believe that supermarkets should emphasize the sale of locally-grown and raised foods in order to cut down on transportation and greenhouse gas emissions. I also believe that the public should be educated on how much is really involved in the production of meat, so the public can decide for themselves whether meats raised in other areas are worth it. Education of the public is key if we want to reduce emissions, whether it be from meats, automobiles, or industry.