Save millions of lives by 2050
"WHO statement: "Less red meat and more fruit and vegetables"
The WHO estimates that by 2050 this change in diet could save up to 8 million lives a year, which adds up to a total of 6-10% reduction in global mortality. While saving lives the change could also cut food-related greenhouse emissions by over 66%.
All in all, they estimate that the change to a less meat intensive diet could save up to $30 trillion globally, which comes in at around a tenth of global GDP predicted for 2050. While they remain optimistic, drastic changes are needed to meet this goal.
With growing populations and wealth increasing around the world, the picture looks grim however. With growing wealth and population comes a rise in total consumption of meat products as well. While vegetable and fruit consumption is also rising, it isn't the trend that the WHO predicts could save millions of lives.
source: independent.co.uk
