Annotated Bibliography

Veganism and its Effect on the Climate

Corrado, Sara, et al. “Contribution of Different Life Cycle Stages to the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Associated with Three Balanced Dietary Patterns.” Science of the Total Environment, vol. 660, Apr. 2019, pp. 622–630. EBSCOhost, doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.12.267.

In this academic journal, studies show that switching to an omnivorous, vegetarian or vegan diet is better for the environment in regard to food consumption. However, it also explores the fact that food production is associated with greenhouse gas emissions. The journal concludes that cooking and waste is based on the consumer, which is associated with greenhouse gas emissions. This journal has statistical and relevant information that would be useful to my topic.

Henderson, Emma. “Why Being Vegan Isn’t as Environmentally Friendly as You Might Think.” The Independent, Independent Digital News and Media, 29 Jan. 2018, www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/veganism-environment-veganuary-friendly-food-diet-damage-hodmedods-protein-crops-jack-monroe-a8177541.html.

Veganism is becoming very popular and many companies are having to adapt to this change. Food industry is shifting and the world is realising that we need to eat less meat and more vegetables, however there can’t be an uneven balance. This article explores the agricultural side of veganism and that we shouldn’t buy imported foods. This article is useful because it gives examples of vegan foods in agriculture.

Rohmer, S. U. K., et al. “A Nutritional Comparison and Production Perspective: Reducing the Environmental Footprint of the Future.” Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 196, Sept. 2018, pp. 1407–1417. EBSCOhost, doi:10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.06.125.

This study claims that a plant-based diet has a better impact on the climate. The research shows that there are more environmentally friendly alternatives to the consumption and production of food. It also touches on the production system and sourcing of products, such as cow’s meat and dairy in the Netherlands. This will allow me to see the positive side of veganism, but also understand the product production faults.  

Spratt, Vicky. “Science Says Being Vegetarian Is Worse For Environment Than Eating Meat.” Grazia, Bauer Media Group, 16 Dec. 2015, graziadaily.co.uk/life/real-life/science-says-vegetarian-worse-environment-eating-meat/.

This article explores that being vegan and growing vegetables uses more energy and water than that of meat, which causes greenhouse gas emissions. It argues that eating vegan may not be better for the environment. This information will work well to argue the opposing side of my question. 

“Vegan v Flexitarian – Which Will Save the Planet?” BBC Food, BBC, 27 Aug. 2019, ww.bbc.co.uk/food/articles/vegan_vs_flexitarian.

This article talks about the fact that the environmental impact of our food system is only going to increase. It explores the environmental impact of veganism if everyone converted to it. This has results, however, it explores the production of dairy and protein substitutes and their effect on the environment. This particular information will serve as an important point in my essay.