Eco-Friendly Food Choices | Hannah Ritchie, PhD
The Proof with Simon Hill
Global Water Usage and Agriculture Impact
The majority of global water usage is attributed to agriculture, often overshadowing individual conservation actions like reducing tap use. Livestock products, particularly beef, lamb, and dairy, possess a significant water footprint, while certain crops, notably nuts, also require substantial water resources. Transitioning to a plant-based diet may not universally reduce water consumption due to these water-intensive crops. Despite being a water-rich planet, the availability of usable freshwater is severely constrained. Local disparities in water access frequently manifest as either excess during floods or scarcity during prolonged droughts, highlighting the critical challenge of water availability amidst climate extremes. Additionally, issues related to water quality must be considered in the broader discussion of water resource management.
