Climate Change Committee calls for a 25% reduction in meat and 20% reduction in dairy to help meet the UK’s net-zero target.

Britons have been urged to reduce their meat consumption by 25% and dairy by 20% by 2040 to help the UK meet its climate targets, according to the Climate Change Committee (CCC). The CCC, which advises the government on climate issues, has outlined a plan to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by 87% by 2040 and ultimately achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

To achieve these targets, the public would need to cut back on their meat intake, which is described as equivalent to giving up two fry-ups or doner kebabs a week. Dr Emily Nurse from the CCC explained that this reduction in meat and dairy consumption would contribute significantly to cutting emissions from the agricultural sector and also help free up land for tree planting and peatland restoration, which would help absorb carbon.

While the committee’s plan involves a shift in dietary habits, it stresses that this does not mean people need to adopt a vegan lifestyle. However, it calls for a significant reduction in livestock numbers, which is expected to decrease by 27% by 2040, compared to 2023 levels.

Farmers have expressed concern over these recommendations, arguing that the UK’s environmentally friendly meat production should take precedence over meat imports from regions with higher carbon footprints.

In addition to dietary changes, households are encouraged to make eco-conscious decisions such as purchasing electric cars and installing heat pumps to replace gas boilers, which would contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions. According to the CCC’s projections, these changes could result in savings of around £700 per year on heating bills and another £700 on motoring costs.

The CCC also proposes a variety of other measures, including increased tree planting, peatland restoration, renewable energy expansion, and greater responsibility for the aviation industry in reducing emissions. The committee’s recommendations aim to guide the UK in meeting its climate goals and achieving a more sustainable future.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed that the government will review the advice and consider the proposed measures.