A more plant-based diet can boost public health and reduce environmental impact in China

Xiaoyu Liu () and Liangjie Xin ()
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Xiaoyu Liu: Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, CAS
Liangjie Xin: Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, CAS

Food Security: The Science, Sociology and Economics of Food Production and Access to Food, 2024, vol. 16, issue 2, No 8, 422 pages

Abstract: Abstract The current diet structure of Chinese residents poses significant challenges to both health and the environment. Accordingly, in this study, a diet structure optimization model was developed to simulate the diet structure of urban and rural residents in four regions of China, taking into account nutritional needs and environmental sustainability for optimization. The results showed that by optimization based on nutrition alone, nutrient adequacy ratios could increase by 2.8% on average, narrowing regional disparities. Incorporating environmental sustainability slightly reduced nutritional improvements but significantly lowered carbon emissions, water usage, and ecological footprints by 2.9%, 6.9%, and 2.4%, respectively. By simulating the optimization of diet structure, the Qinghai-Tibet region showed potential for nutrient enhancement, whereas the southern and northern regions had opportunities for environmental impact mitigation. This study highlights the significance of transitioning towards a sustainable diet structure that enhances nutritional levels while prioritizing individual and environmental well-being and emphasizes the urgent need for change. It also offers targeted recommendations for diet structures in different regions of China, thereby providing invaluable references for policymakers and other countries striving to establish sustainable and balanced diets.

Keywords: China; Diet structure optimization; Environmental impacts; Regional differences (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s12571-024-01435-2

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