Recent studies have proved the carbon footprint of a vegan is twice as low as the carbon footprint of a meat-eater. The production of meat is a big contributor to the amount of carbon in our air. Animal-based products tend to release more CO2 emissions than plant-based products because of the amount of methane the animals produce and the inefficiencies in livestock feed. According to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, agricultural practices contribute 14% of greenhouse gas emissions. The most recent study consisted of the idea that annual agricultural carbon emissions could be reduced up to 90% by 2030 with a reduction in beef consumption. This proves being vegetarian can help the environment in a very positive way. Even though, all across the world, meat is a primary source of food, the production it which it is made contributes a big amount of CO2 into the air.

I just posted my carbon footprint asking for tips on how to reduce the carbon input of my eating habits. I think that going for more plant-based products rather than meat-products is a great way to reduce carbon levels! However, it is true that meat is a primary source of food. I just read that an animal's diet may help reduce their methane levels. I hope that in the near future I can eat meat peacefully without having to worry so much about the environment! I also hope I can change my eating habits...

I agree with you that eating less meat is a good way to cut down on your carbon footprint, however, since meat is a primary source of food for a lot of people, I researched some ways that can cut down carbon production from meat. First of all, many animals used in the meat industry are feed corn as it is cheap. However, buying meat that has been grass-fed isn’t only better for the animal it also cuts down on the carbon made from farming the corn. Another way to make meat more sustainable is to buy locally. Large factory farms have a terrible effect on the environment and release harmful chemicals into the air and soil around them. By buying locally the money is used to support local sustainable farms instead of big factories. Buying locally also means reducing the carbon released during the transportation of the meat. Although a plant-based diet still produces the least carbon I think if more people buy meat from local, sustainable farmers it would cut back on CO2 emissions.
http://www.sustainabletable.org/1649/the-meat-to-eat