Consumers unaware of impact of meat production on global warming

19th May 2008, 11:58am

Only two in ten people correctly recognised the impact of meat production on global warming, with awareness higher amongst men (29%) than women (18%), according to new research by The Vegetarian Society.

Young people aged between 16 and 24 demonstrated the highest level of awareness, with 33% listing livestock farming as a greater source of greenhouse gasses than transport.

Figures also suggest that four in ten people would consider having meat-free days each week to reduce their carbon footprint, with women showing greater interest in adapting their diets (43%) then men (32%).

Almost one in four women already has meat-free days or are prepared to adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet, compared with just one in ten men.

Annette Pinner, chief executive of The Vegetarian Society, explained: "Vegetarianism is not only a healthy and ethically sound diet it is a major step to help reduce greenhouse gases, conserve water and conserve land.

"With climate change making headlines and many people unsure of what they can do to help, giving up meat and cutting back on dairy is a positive choice for you, for the animals and for the world we share."

The Tickbox.net survey of 1000 people coincides with the launch of National Vegetarian Week, and is sponsored by Cauldron Foods, and Meat the Truth, an environmental documentary hosted by The Vegetarian Society.

The documentary is the first to explore the relationship between meat consumption and climate change.

Weblink:

www.vegsoc.org 

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