Are Popular Diets Sustainable in a Changing Climate?

In the face of climate change, the sustainability of popular diets comes under scrutiny, forcing us to rethink our plates and planet alike.

Global Appetites, Local Consequences

The global shift towards healthier diets is reshaping both human health and the environment, playing a pivotal role in our sustainable future as populations grow and climate change intensifies. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defines sustainable diets as those that are safe, healthy, economically feasible, culturally acceptable, and environmentally friendly. This concept encompasses a set of dietary decisions that aim to preserve the environment, promote human health, and uphold human rights.

In recent years, various dieting trends have emerged, driven by changing consumer preferences, health concerns, and cultural influences. From veganism to the ketogenic diet, these movements have garnered worldwide attention and transformed people's relationships with food. However, these evolving food preferences extend beyond personal choices; they represent collective decisions that significantly impact global food security and environmental sustainability. 

The ketogenic diet, characterized by its high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate content, relies heavily on animal products such as meat, fatty fish, eggs, and dairy. While beneficial for certain health conditions, this diet contributes significantly to environmental issues like deforestation and water pollution due to intensive livestock farming.

In contrast, vegan and vegetarian diets, primarily plant-based, are generally considered more environmentally sustainable. Veganism excludes all animal-derived products, while vegetarianism allows for some animal products like dairy and eggs. However, these diets are. . .