I never really thought that consuming food would leave such a damaging mark on the environment. However, after reading this article from Green Living Tips, you and I both will see the difference we can all make when choosing our next meal or snack.
It’s not just the food itself we consume, but how far it has traveled to reach our plates, how it’s grown, processed, stored and cooked. Just how much CO2 is being exhausted so we can enjoy a burger? Check out the details below.
Single cheeseburger – 7 – 14 lbs CO2 (Source)
Pound of lamb – ~ 16 lbs CO2 (Source)
Pound of beef – ~ 15 lbs CO2 (Source)
Pound of pork – 6.75 lbs* CO2 (Source)
Pound of chicken – 3.37 lbs* CO2 (Source)
Pound of wild tuna – 4.5 lbs* CO2 (Source)
Pound of wild-caught shrimp – 2.7 lbs (Source)
Pound of wild salmon – 0.06 lbs (Source)
Pound of hothouse tomatoes – ~ 9 lbs CO2 (Source)
Pound of potatoes – ~ .4 lbs CO2 (Source)
Quart of milk - ~ 3 pounds CO2 equivalent (Source)
* Emissions in relation to feed only
Tips for reducing your food’s carbon foot print
- Buy organic
- Buy local
- Shop farmer’s markets
- Can/freeze fresh foods for the winter months
- Participate in a CSA or food co-ops
