Scientists Urge Decrease in Beef Consumption

By Hilary Pollack | June 29, 2012

A coalition of scientists has released a report outlining the inefficiency and environmental destruction of beef production.

The environmental nonprofit Union of Concerned Scientists has issued a new report that urges the world’s citizens to eat less meat, especially beef, in efforts to increase sustainability and protect the environment. The report finds that beef production is extremely inefficient, accounting for roughly 60 percent of the world’s agricultural land use but also resulting in less than five percent of edible protein and less than two percent of total calories for people. Additionally, it is responsible for massive deforestation and methane release. The scientists encourage consumers to eat less beef, and meat in general, and to urge local grocery stores to only carry meats that are not associated with deforestation.

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