Key Takeaways
- Land Use Reduction: Circular food systems can reduce land use by up to 60%.
- Lower GHG Emissions: These systems can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 81%.
- Protein Intake Balance: Maintaining a 40:60 ratio of animal to plant proteins optimizes environmental benefits.
- Nutrient Adequacy: Daily, less than 18 g of animal protein risks nutrient deficiencies.
Introduction
As Europe strives for sustainability, protein transition, and circular food systems emerge as key strategies. Simon et al. (2024) explore how these approaches can maintain current protein intake levels while significantly reducing land use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Research Overview
The study models different scenarios of animal-sourced protein (ASP) to plant-sourced protein (PSP) ratios within a circular food system, assessing their impact on land use and GHG emissions. It highlights how circular principles can be integrated into the food system to achieve environmental sustainability without compromising nutritional needs.
Methodology
Modeling Approach: The Circular Food System (CiFoS) optimization model was used to evaluate 18 scenarios of ASP to PSP ratios. The scenarios were assessed under two dietary approaches: current protein intake (82 g per capita per day) and recommended intake (46 g per capita per day).
Data and Assumptions: The model incorporated data on current European food production, consumption, and waste management practices. Nutritional requirements were based on the EAT-Lancet diet and European Food Safety Authority guidelines.
Results
Environmental Impact:
- Land Use: Maintaining the current 60:40 ASP ratio while applying circular principles reduced land use by 44%. Shifting to a 40:60 ratio led to a 60% reduction.
- GHG Emissions: Circular food systems at the current ASP ratio reduced emissions by 70%. A 40:60 ratio resulted in an 81% reduction.
Nutritional Adequacy: Diets with less than 18 g of animal protein per day risked deficiencies in vitamin B12, calcium, and other nutrients, necessitating higher production of nutrient-dense crops, which increased environmental impact.
Conclusion
Simon et al. (2024) demonstrate that circular food systems can sustain European protein intake levels while significantly reducing land use and GHG emissions. The optimal 40:60 ASP ratio balances environmental benefits with nutritional adequacy, providing a viable pathway for sustainable food systems. These findings underscore the importance of integrating circular principles into food policy and dietary guidelines to enhance both human and planetary health.
For more detailed information, you can access the full study here.
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