While many of us are focused on the importance of the US re-joining the Paris Climate agreement, a significant change both in policy and public health guidance could begin making a difference in the reduction levels of emissions by focusing on changing the recommended diets of Americans to become more plant-based. A recent article published in Vox (11/17/20) discusses the need to reduce meat consumption now.
The food system is responsible for about 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide and this is expected to increase as people around the world become more affluent
Reducing the consumption of animal products, i.e. meat, dairy, eggs and aquaculture, which account for about 56% of food related greenhouse gasses could immediately make an impact. After that, looking at food production techniques could also begin to make a real difference.