Media release: 30th January 2007 - The Vegan Society - For immediate use

Government says cut meat and dairy consumption

The government has launched a new website which points out how the foods we eat impact on climate change. It states: “The production of meat and dairy products has a much bigger effect on climate change and other environmental impacts than that of most grains, pulses and outdoor fruit and vegetables.” It goes on to say: “Many people could benefit from eating a larger proportion of fruit and vegetables and less saturated fat in their diet.”

Rosamund Raha, Head of Information at the Vegan Society said: “I am pleased that the government has at last recognised the damage being caused by eating meat and dairy products but would urge them to promote a vegan diet which is the best option for the environment.”

The website recommends buying fish from a sustainable source, however globally fishing vessels use about 50 billion litres of fuel a year to catch 80 million tonnes of fish; that is 1.2% of global oil production. Vegan Society Media Officer Nigel Winter said: “Fish farming is not the answer either. It takes between 2 and 5 kg of wild fish to produce 1 kg of fishmeal-fed farmed fish; so farmed fish also contribute to dwindling fish stocks in the oceans.”

Are Government ministers going to lead by example and cut meat and dairy from their diets as well as using public transport?

Ends.

Note to editors: for further information contact Rosamund Raha: Telephone 01424 448829; e-mail rosamund.raha@vegansociety.com

References:

www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentandgreenerliving/Greenerfoodanddrink/index.htm

Fueling Global Fishing Fleets. Peter H. Tyedmers, Reg Watson and Daniel Pauly. Review and Synthesis of the Environmental impacts of Aquaculture. The Scottish Executive 2002. Chapter 6.