The Prolepsis Institute for World Environment Day
June 5, 2019
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Prolepsis Institute highlights the interrelation of human nutrition and climate change repercussions. In particular, it emphasizes the need to change the world’s current consumption pattern, in addition to its food production model and to advocate for policies that promote healthy eating habits.
The systematic exploitation of the planet for the production of food combined with the extensive use of pesticides has become a key factor of climate change. Specifically, the exponential increase in the consumption of products of animal origin is an exacerbating factor, since it is responsible for releasing a significant amount of greenhouse gases (19% of the total greenhouse gas emissions globally). It is evident that the global production of meat is five time higher than fifrty years ago, meanwhile the average annual per capita consumption of meat has doubled (from 20 kg/year in 1961, to 43 kg/year in 2014 per person).
It must be noted, that even though the consumption of meat and dairy products was considered a sign of prosperity, the consequences of increased meat consumption on human health, especially processed meat, are mainly negative. The excessive consumption of red and processed meats is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes and some types of cancer. An unhealthy diet is overall one of the main reasons for the mortality and morbidity of humans, while simultaneously negatively impacting the environment. In addition, governments can’t resist the pressure from profiting companies, who produce and distribute products that are dangerous towards human health and the environment.
While facing this predicament, it is vital to advocate for policies, interventions and innovations that promote healthy diets and at the same time don’t harm the environment. To accomplish this, 37 top scientists from 16 countries who comprise the EAT-Lancet Committee have designed an eco-friendly food standard within a sustainable food production system. According to the committee, the global consumption of fruit, vegetables, nuts and legumes will have to double by 2050 and the consumption of red meat and sugar will have to decrease by more than 50%.
The Prolepsis Institute highlights the need to, once again, implement the mediterranean diet into our lifestyle. Its beneficial effects preserve and promote healthy lifestyles while functioning as a paradigm for the protection of the environment. Its reintegration into our daily lives is the first step that everyone can and must take.
Additional information about the traditional greek diet and valuable guidance can be found in the National Nutrition Guides, here. Since 2017, the Ministry of Health has recommended the wide dissemination and use of dietary recommendations included in the National Nutrition Guides.
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