ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF RESTRICTED CONSUMPTION OF LIVESTOCK PRODUCTS ON ENVIRONMENT AND FOOD SYSTEMS

Abstract

 The effect of reducing GHG emissions by limiting the consumption of livestock products has been reported. However, the specific impact on the food system and land use system that are the sources of GHG emissions has not been evaluated. The purpose of this paper is to clarify the impact of restricted consumption of livestock products on the environment and food system using the AIM/CGE model. Our analysis shows that restricted livestock consumption reduced GHG emissions by 960MtCO_2eq/year, increased forest area by 93Mha, increased carbon sequestration of land by 240MtCO_2eq/year, reduced irrigation water use by 200million m³ /year and reduced Nitrogen fertilizer use by 3 million tonne N in 2050. In conclusion, limiting the consumption of livestock products is expected to be effective not only for reducing GHG emissions but also for protecting the environment.