A new report from non-profit Changing Markets Foundation says that the huge amounts of greenhouse gas emissions produced by meat and dairy are being kept off the climate agenda due to ‘hidden’ partnerships with international climate bodies. The report states that, although climate change is a real threat to food security, the narrative of groups such as COP30 is reframed and exploited by meat and dairy industry corporations to justify the continued growth of animal agriculture.
Scientists agree that we cannot stay close to a 1.5°C temperature increase, as stipulated by the Paris Agreement, if we do not significantly cut methane emissions and reduce consumption of animal products – yet both are projected to increase. This matters even more in Australia, with meteorologists predicting a ‘super El Niño’ developing this year and into 2027. This is likely to produce severe droughts, extreme temperatures, and the risk of catastrophic bushfires.
In Australia, cattle and sheep farming accounts for about 70% of Australian agricultural emissions, largely from methane (CH₄) emitted from enteric fermentation. These animals are all unique, feeling individuals, who suffer horrendous cruelty which includes branding, dehorning and castration without anaesthetics. The best way to combat disastrous climate change, and the accompanying suffering, is with your knife and fork – by switching to vegan meals.
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