The Planetary Diet Could Slash Emissions and Save Millions of Lives

A major shift in global eating habits could cut emissions and improve health, according to new research. The planetary diet, also known as the EAT-Lancet diet, aims to feed the world sustainably while reducing greenhouse gases. Scientists say widespread adoption could lower emissions by 17% and cut premature deaths by nearly a third. The global food system currently produces around one-third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. Animal products, especially red meat and dairy, are the biggest contributors to dietary emissions. The planetary diet focuses on plant-based foods, with smaller amounts of fish, eggs, and dairy, to reduce environmental harm.

A switch to this diet would have the greatest impact in countries with high meat consumption. In places like Uzbekistan, Australia, and Qatar, emissions from food could drop by over 60%. For overconsuming populations, the change could cut emissions by 32.4%. Beyond environmental benefits, the diet also targets health improvements. It drastically reduces saturated fats and sugars, which may lower the risk of early death by 30%. However, affordability remains a challenge—over 1.58 billion people worldwide cannot currently access the EAT-Lancet diet due to cost.

The planetary diet offers a way to feed a growing population while cutting emissions and improving health. If widely adopted, it could reduce global food-related emissions by 17%. Yet, cost barriers mean many still lack access to this sustainable eating plan.