In the wake of climate change, many of us are taking steps to reduce our carbon footprints. For example, many people around the world have turned vegan. They are changing their diets to reduce meat consumption and the emission of greenhouse gases.
However, there is one thing that we have neglected in our pursuit of controlling climate change. This is that we don’t account for the carbon footprint of our pets. According to various studies, our furry friends have a significant environmental impact.
How Are Pets Affecting Climate Change?
We can make changes to our diet to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. But that is not enough to tackle climate change significantly. That is because we don’t change the diets of our pets. Here are some facts about pets and their effect on the environment:
- Pets Result In Significant Emission Of Greenhouse Gases
According to a study, meat consumption of pets in the US releases 64 million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. This is equivalent to the amount produced by 13 million cars. Pets account for 30% of the environmental impact caused by meat consumption.
So unless you change the diet of your animal companions, you cannot make a significant positive environmental change. To produce meat animal has to be farmed. As a result, 41% of greenhouse gases are released into the environment.
- Dried Pet Foods Are Made From Meat
Many of you may opt for dry pet foods because they may seem animal-free to you. However, they are not. If you check the ingredients carefully, you’ll realize the truth.
Dried pet meals are made from animals as well as fish items. That is why their product releases 106 million tonnes of carbon dioxide yearly. A 2020 study has confirmed this.
- Pets Produce Same Amount Of Feces As 90 Million Americans
The meat consumption of animals in the US is relatively high. Each year the pet population results in about 5.1 million tonnes of feces. This is equivalent to the amount produced by 90 million Americans.
Additionally, due to improper disposal of waste, more greenhouse gases are emitted into the environment. We cannot control the amount of feces that our pets produce. However, we can reduce their carbon footprint by making suitable changes.
How To Reduce Impact By Pets?
Controlling the emission of greenhouse gases is difficult. However, the problem is relatively easier to tackle when it comes to pets. Here are some steps you can take to reduce their carbon footprint:
- Shift Them To Insect-Based Diet
Production of insect-based pet food results in less emission of greenhouse gases than animal products. Even PFMA confirms this.
- Use Other Sustainable Options
To reduce environmental impact, you can also incorporate more plant-based products into your pet’s diet. They are as nutritious as meat products. Additionally, they are readily available on the market.
Final Words
That was your complete guide to the effect of pets on the environment. To save the planet, you should change the diet of your animal friends. Once you take your and your pets’ carbon footprint into account, you can make a real positive impact.