Livestock numbers should be slashed to combat climate change,
says a report.
A 30% reduction in livestock in high-producing countries is
needed to meet climate change targets, says the document.
The report calls on health ministers and professionals across
the world to recognise the danger that climate change poses to
health.
A reduction in livestock numbers that led to reduced meat
consumption would have positive effects on human health, it
states.
Changes in farming practice to reduce livestock and overall meat
consumption could lower the intake of saturated fat, says the
report.
The document was launched at an event attended by
health secretary Andy Burnham on Wednesday (25 November).
"Climate change can seem a distant, impersonal threat - in fact,
the associated costs to health are a very real and present danger,"
he said.
"Health Ministers across the globe must act now to highlight the
risk global warming poses to the health of our communities.
"We need well-designed climate change policies that drive health
benefits."
The government was determined to bring the human health cost of
climate change to the forefront of the debate on global warming,
said Mr Burnham.
Policies must improve health as well as reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, to help "tip the balance" in favour of ambitious climate
change action, he added.
What do you think about the report? Do you feel undermined by
this approach?
Share your thoughts on the forums. Or read reaction to the
report
here.
