Livestock and global warming

Abstract

Global warming is increasing rapidly and will continue to cause catastrophic effects on the delicate environmental balance. The livestock sector, specifically enteric methane emissions, greatly contribute to the warming effect. Fortunately, scientists have found numerous methods of reducing enteric methane emissions. Research has found certain changes and additives in feed can have large effects on emissions. Additionally, civilians have the opportunity to help reduce global warming by cutting their meat intake. Multiple plant-based alternatives are commercially available at comparable prices to meat. Advances in science have even begun to successfully develop lab-grown meat which would also reduce the need for large quantities of livestock, and their negative effects. Thankfully, Jewish law does not prohibit most alternatives and further research and developments may even give kashrut-observant Jews the opportunity to taste foods that were not otherwise permitted. With the destructive global warming effects in mind, it is essential to reduce methane emissions immediately through as many methods as possible in order to preserve the natural environment for future decades.