UK Green Party Member Proposes a Meat Tax to Promote Sustainable Farming
A study by Oxford researchers found that a meat tax could reduce global greenhouse, decrease the number of deaths attributable to red and processed meat consumption by 222,000, and save $41 billion in related health costs worldwide.
RENAE REINTS: ‘The UK’s Green Party parliament member Caroline Lucas believes the country needs “serious consideration” of a meat tax, arguing it would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote more sustainable farming. In a speech to the Oxford Farming Conference, Lucas called for a sustainable food system that restores biodiversity, supports farmers’ livelihoods, upholds animal welfare standards, and contributes to a zero-carbon world…
While she admitted “better manure management and careful selection of seed can both help reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Lucas added that a meat tax, particularly on beef, would reduce livestock production and support sustainable meat producers.
Her words may carry some weight: A study by Oxford University researchers found that a meat tax could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by over 100 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, mostly by reducing beef consumption.
The research, published in Nov. 2018, also said the tax could decrease the number of deaths attributable to red and processed meat consumption by 222,000 and save $41 billion in related health costs worldwide. Other studies have shown that taxes on items like soda, alcohol, and tobacco can influence consumers’ decisions, leading them to a healthier lifestyle’. SOURCE…
RELATED VIDEO: