New Survey Shows Nearly Half of Americans Would Consider Going Vegan for the Environment

A new survey found that nearly half of Americans would consider going vegan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the planet. The survey results, released in time for Earth Day, show that 46% of respondents are willing to transition to a plant-based diet for the environmental benefits. According to the United Nations, shifting to plant-based diets has the potential to reduce carbon footprints, mitigate climate change, and improve human health.

Beef has been identified as the food with the highest greenhouse gas emissions, followed by cheese, tofu, vegetables, and nuts. Despite the impact of diet on the environment not being mentioned in the Dietary Guidelines, research shows that a Healthy Vegetarian Dietary Pattern has half the carbon footprint of the Guidelines’ main recommendations. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine recommends a plant-based diet for both individual health and the health of the planet.