A new study from the University of British Columbia reveals that dietary habits must change to help limit global warming to below 2°C. Researchers found that half the world's population, including nearly all Canadians, exceeds safe food emissions levels. Practical shifts like reducing beef and food waste could significantly cut emissions.
The research, published in Environmental Research: Food Systems in 2025, analyzed data from 112 countries representing 99 percent of global food-related greenhouse gas emissions. Led by Dr. Juan Diego Martinez during his time as a doctoral student at UBC’s Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability, the study used 2012 consumption figures to calculate personal food emissions budgets aligned with the 2°C warming threshold.
Key findings show that 44 percent of the global population currently needs to alter their eating patterns, a figure expected to rise to 90 percent by 2050 as emissions and population grow. Food systems contribute more than one-third of all human greenhouse gas emissions, with the wealthiest 15 percent of people—often in high-emission nations like Canada, Brazil, and Australia—responsible for 30 percent of food emissions alone. In Canada, every income group surpasses the emissions cap, with beef accounting for 43 percent of an average person's food-related emissions.
Dr. Martinez emphasized actionable steps: “Eat only what you need. Repurpose what you don't. Less wasted food means fewer emissions, less cooking and more easy, tasty leftovers.” He also advocated reducing beef intake, noting, “I grew up in Latin America where eating a lot of beef is part of the culture, so I get how much of an ask this is. But we just can't deny the data anymore.” Beyond individual choices, he urged broader impact: “Vote with your fork. This is a first step to demand change from your political leaders.”
While debates on reducing flights or luxury consumption are important, the study highlights food's universal relevance, as everyone must eat. These dietary adjustments, combined with supply chain efficiencies, could help meet climate targets without solely relying on other sectors.
