Beef and the connection to Global Warming

While we all have our reasons for working to reduce global warming, mine is a pretty selfish one. I like the earth we live on. For me there is no greater peace than a walk through the woods, hearing the wind rustle through the leaves and the birds chattering. It's for that reason that I make an effort to have a positive impact on our environment as much as I can. I also take issue with those people driving big old gas-guzzlers around; it’s not just their business what they drive, it’s mine, because I live on this earth too. But that’s besides the point.

One very interesting fact about greenhouse gasses is that beef releases it on a much greater scale than our vehicles do! Beef cattle contribute 18% of the greenhouse gas emissions, and that’s just the gas released from their digestive systems! That figure doesn't include the raising and transporting involved. Just two pounds of beef is the equivalent of driving for three hours while leaving all of the lights on back at home. Wow.

But don’t think you have to cut out beef all together to make a difference. If you’re really jonesin’ for some red meat, go organic. Organic beef raised on grass release 40% less emissions and use 85% less energy. Another option is to try a veggie burger. They are actually a really great tasting substitute for beef, and they're much better for you!