Livestock pollutes more than cars

According to the experts' report, even if the cars with combustion engines are stopped, it will not help the environment much.

Greenhouse gas emissions from farm animals (cows, pigs, etc.) are higher than all vehicles in the EU. This is reported by the British newspaper The Guardian with reference to a new report by the environmental organization Greenpeace. It turns out that if everyone in Europe switches to electric cars, little will change for the environment unless action is taken to reduce livestock numbers.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in 2018, livestock farming in the EU (including the UK) emits about 502 million tons of greenhouse gases per year - mostly methane. In comparison, cars emit about 656 million tons of carbon dioxide. If we calculate indirect greenhouse gas emissions and take into account how much of them is emitted as a result of growing and producing feed, deforestation and other things, then the total emissions of livestock production will be about 704 million tons.

The report also states that meat consumption increased by 9,5% from 2007 to 2018, resulting in a 6% increase in emissions. It's like launching 8,4 million new gasoline vehicles. If this growth continues, the likelihood that the EU will meet its commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris Agreement will be much lower.

“The scientific evidence is very clear. The numbers tell us that we will not be able to avoid a worsening climate if politicians continue to defend the industrial production of meat and dairy products. Farm animals won't stop farting and burping. The only way to bring emissions down to the required level is to reduce the number of livestock,” said Marco Contiero, who is in charge of agricultural policy at Greenpeace.