Food choices contributing to environmental degradation, says Christopher Isu

Christopher Isu, a climate change advocate and fellow at the New Roots Institute, has launched a one-month ‘Eat for Impact’ initiative in Abuja.

The initiative is aimed at raising awareness about sustainable eating in Nigeria, and the environmental impact of food choices in mitigating climate change.

Speaking with TheCable on Tuesday, Isu said the initiative will help Nigeria “reduce its emissions footprint from the agricultural sector”.

“I was already a climate change advocate, but I hadn’t considered how our food choices, particularly factory farming, contributed to environmental degradation,” he said.

“Through my fellowship with New Roots Institute, I learned that animal agriculture contributes about 14.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions — an alarming statistic that I believe needs more attention.”

Isu noted that although his novel project has been met with reluctance, three restaurants in Abuja currently list sustainable foods on their menu due to his campaign.

The environmentalist, who urged Nigerians to consider their food footprint and explore plant-based alternatives, noted that sustainable eating is not just a “choice but a necessity for the future of the planet”.

“We want to make plant-based meals more available in restaurants. If we can do that, we will not only reduce emissions but also encourage more people to grow their own food, which is both environmentally sustainable and economically beneficial,” he added.

“Many restaurants were hesitant, asking how many customers would choose plant-based options over traditional meat dishes.

“But, the three spots — Tastia restaurant, Churchill hotels, and Top7 Orlando hotel — that agreed to participate have seen positive feedback, with some customers even expressing excitement over the availability of climate-friendly options.”

AGRICULTURE FUELLING EMISSIONS

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) says the agriculture sector accounts for about one-third of total green house gas (GHG) emissions worldwide — about 20 percent of overall emissions.

These emissions primarily originate from activities like deforestation, livestock production, and the use of synthetic fertilisers.

Livestock, including cows, sheep, and goats, produce methane — a potent greenhouse gas — during digestion through a process known as enteric fermentation.

This methane is said to have the ability to warm the earth 28 times faster than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period.

Climate change advocates say by shifting toward plant-based diets and reducing reliance on animal products, individuals can reduce the carbon footprint of their food choices.