Are you tired of hearing about climate change and feeling like there’s nothing you can do about it? Well, you’re in luck because there’s a simple solution that doesn’t require you to become a hermit living off the grid. Just eat more plants! No, we’re not talking about becoming a full-blown vegan, just swap out half your meals for plant-based options. Not only will you be doing your part to reduce animal suffering, but you’ll also be helping to combat climate change.

Now, you might be thinking, “But I love a good steak!” We get it, cows are delicious. But did you know that meat and dairy production are major contributors to methane emissions? And, in case you didn’t know, methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases out there. In fact, according to the IPCC, releasing just one ton of methane is equivalent to releasing 28 tons of carbon dioxide over a century. Yikes!

But wait, it gets even worse. Methane breaks down much more quickly than carbon dioxide, meaning that its impact is even more lopsided in the short term. In just 20 years, one ton of methane can warm the planet as much as 84 tons of carbon dioxide. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, meat lovers.

But don’t fret! You don’t have to give up your beloved bacon entirely. Just make a small change and swap out half your meals for plant-based options. Trust us, your taste buds won’t even notice. Plus, think of all the adorable cows and sheep frolicking in the fields that you’ll be saving. It’s a win-win situation. So next time you’re deciding between a cheeseburger or a veggie burger, remember that you have the power to make a difference.

Serious News: nytimes