COP 15 in Copenhagen: Time to question industrial agriculture
As world leaders gather in Copenhagen to discuss climate change and strategies to prevent and alleviate effects on our planet, Food & Water Europe remains acutely aware of half-hearted solutions that such meetings typically bring. A new factsheet issued today by the consumer group focuses on the lack of willingness to address in a meaningful manner the impact of industrial agriculture on the climate.
Food & Water Europe Fact Sheet Details Damaging Impact of Industrial Agriculture
As world leaders gather in Copenhagen to discuss climate change and strategies to prevent and alleviate effects on our planet, Food & Water Europe remains acutely aware of half-hearted solutions that such meetings typically bring. A new factsheet issued today by the consumer group focuses on the lack of willingness to address in a meaningful manner the impact of industrial agriculture on the climate.
It is time to question the prevailing model of agriculture, one that is based on monoculture and factory farming. Large-scale animal operations, whether using pigs or cattle, release lots of methane, which is known to be detrimental to the climate. Furthermore, they rely on soya-based animal feed, usually imported from overseas. Not only does industrial monoculture soya production contribute to climate change in terms of deforestation of the Amazonian region, it also uses tremendous amounts of energy for processing and transport to reach livestock in Europe and other parts of the world. Studies estimate that feedlot cattle require twice as much fossil fuel energy to raise as grass-fed cows. Producing one pound of beef in a factory farm results in the by-product of eight pounds (3.6 kilograms) of carbon dioxide in addition to other greenhouse gases and using a tremendous amount of water.
Food processing takes its toll on the environment as well. Globally, the food & drink sector use about 23 % of energy resources. This energy can be saved if local, sustainable food solution based on family farms are promoted. Locally rooted food production, respectful of biodiversity, animal welfare and fair income for farmers can cool down the earth
To learn more about the perils of industrial agriculture on our climate read the factsheet, Climate Change: It’s what for Dinner.
Food and Water Europe is the program of Food and Water Watch, Inc (a non-profit consumer NGO based in Washington, DC), working to ensure clean water and safe food in Europe and around the world. We challenge the corporate control and abuse of our food and water resources by empowering people to take action and transforming the public consciousness about what we eat and drink.
Contact: Gabriella Zanzanaini, Food and Water Europe, Brussels
[email protected], +32488409662