As world leaders gather for COP30 in Belém, Brazil, against the backdrop of the Amazon rainforest, the urgency of addressing the global food system is clearer than ever. As a recent article by the UN Foundation (UN Foundation: A new way forward for food systems on the COP30 agenda) notes, agriculture is the number one threat to the Amazon and the food system contributes to a third of all global greenhouse gas emissions.
Brazil’s presidency has rightly made food systems one of six conference priorities. However, while the transformation of food systems offers a “triple win” for people, planet, and prosperity , we must confront the missing piece in the global conversation: a commitment to moving away from unsustainable animal-sourced proteins.
The Need for a Plant-Rich Future
The data is compelling: livestock farming is the single largest source of methane from human activity. Furthermore, while occupying 77% of the world’s agricultural land, livestock only produces 18% of global calories. Experts agree that livestock levels must be reduced by 61% by 2036 to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The UN Foundation article highlights that we currently lack an agreed-upon, integrated global policy pathway for food systems, unlike the energy sector. Instead, we rely on a “patchwork of voluntary targets”, which often omits the need for protein diversification, a shift towards plant-based foods. This transition is crucial for both planetary and human health, as a plant-rich “planetary health diet” could prevent thousands of early deaths daily and halve food-related emissions by 2050.
The slow pace of government action is understandable when we consider that transformation requires unified policies that straddle various areas, from agriculture to health to national security. Furthermore, industrial agriculture still holds its grasp on nations, particularly concerning exports. Yet, countries like Denmark are providing a blueprint, positioning themselves as leaders in plant-based food production through unified policy and industry incentivisation. This demonstrates that where there is political will, a sustainable and equitable shift is possible.
Our Path Forward
At Nurtureland, our vision to shift towards a humanitarian way of life and embracing vegetarianism aligns perfectly with the urgent need to address the systemic drivers of climate change.
We cannot wait for global agreements to force the changes that our hearts and consciences already tell us are necessary. The change begins with each of us, within our homes and our communities. It is absolutely important to promote awareness of the benefits of plant-based foods within the community. Our monthly vegetarian cooking classes, for instance, are an excellent first step towards heading in the right direction. They are a practical, joyful way to inspire and support people on their vegetarianism journey, helping friends, families, and communities discover a balanced lifestyle that is healthier for themselves and for the planet we all share.
Let us continue to nurture this awareness and inspire action, ensuring our local efforts contribute powerfully to the global shift we so desperately need.
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