Frequently Asked Question
Environment“Plant-based diets reduce emissions”
Last reviewed: January 9, 2026
Summary
Dietary shifts toward plant-forward patterns are repeatedly identified as major levers to reduce food-system emissions, land use, and other impacts. Effects are largest when replacing ruminant meat and dairy.
Evidence Summary
- Meta-analyses and large datasets find plant-forward diets lower GHG footprints.
- Even partial shifts (flexitarian) can yield meaningful reductions. Evidence quality: High Limitations / nuance: Regional contexts matter; some low-income regions need nutrition-sensitive approaches. Bottom line: Climate benefits of plant-forward diets are robust across methods.