51% Of Emissions from Animal Agriculture
The Californer/10309669

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- Breaking the silence on animal agriculture's climate impact

Cape Town, 21 March 2025
In a pivotal moment for environmental stewardship, we echo Pope Francis's call to action in his encyclical Laudato Si' to protect our planet and its inhabitants. Today, we shine a spotlight on one of the most significant yet overlooked contributors to climate change: animal agriculture.

The urgent reality

Animal agriculture is a major driver of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, water pollution, and ocean dead zones. Despite its profound impact, it remains under-addressed in global climate discussions. The industry's environmental footprint is substantial, with livestock contributing between 11% and 17% of global greenhouse gas emissions. However, some sources attribute up to 51% of emissions to this sector, highlighting the need for accurate data and urgent action.

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A growing movement for change

Over 300,000 concerned citizens have joined a petition urging influential voices, including Pope Francis, to highlight the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Champions like Greta Thunberg and Bill Nye have already embraced this cause, advocating for a shift towards plant-based diets.

The Call to Action

We invite all environmental leaders, from Pope Francis to Prince William, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Klein, and Sir Richard Branson, to acknowledge and address the devastating effects of animal agriculture. By combining moral authority with environmental advocacy, we can create unprecedented momentum for change.

The path forward

With abundant plant-based alternatives available, we have the power to choose a more sustainable and compassionate path. Together, we can transform our relationship with food production, honour our role as stewards of creation, and protect our planet for future generations.

Join the mission

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The science is clear, and the solutions are available. The only missing ingredient is our collective will to act. We invite you to join us in this urgent mission to protect our common home and all its inhabitants.

Contact Information:

Marda de Wet
Founder, Animal Agriculture & Climate Change
Email: marda@animalagricultureclimatechange.org
Website: https://animalagricultureclimatechange.org

About Animal Agriculture & Climate Change (Pty) Ltd:
A non-profit company dedicated to raising awareness about the environmental impact of animal agriculture and promoting sustainable solutions.

Registration Details:
2016/539664/08

Media Enquiries:

For further information or to schedule an interview, please contact Marda de Wet at marda@animalagricultureclimatechange.org