To the editor:

This year has seen much heated debate over climate change — on the campaign trail, in headlines and at the dinner table.

Increasingly, the discussion surrounding climate change is not so much about what kind of car we drive or recycling, but about eating less meat.

Why?

According to the United Nations, meat production is one of the top contributors to climate change, as factory farms emit vast amounts of carbon dioxide and methane, and animal farms use much land, water and fossil fuels.
A recent EU study entitled “Behavioral Climate Change Mitigation Options,” determined that of the number of options on hand to slow climate change in Europe, the greatest potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions could be achieved by eating less meat.
Thankfully, it’s never been easier to do just that. From Burger King to Lean Cuisine, it seems that everyone is getting on board and offering meat-free options. Join them, and me, by going meat-free on Mondays.

Jennifer Thompson

Chesapeake