Questions and Answers
High consumption of animal-based foods contributes to environmental problems like soil loss, groundwater contamination, and ______.
deforestation
Dr. David Pimentel from Cornell University has documented ways that our system of livestock production ______ precious resources.
wastes
Animal-based food requires about five to fifty times more land and ______ resources than plant-based food.
water
The inefficient use of resources in animal-based food production is considered a ______ in a world where human hunger is endemic.
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Animal-based food production depletes deep ______, affecting water availability.
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Study Notes
Environmental Impact of Animal-Based Foods
- High consumption of animal-based foods significantly contributes to environmental issues such as soil degradation, groundwater pollution, deforestation, fossil fuel consumption, and depletion of aquifers.
- Livestock production is inefficient, leading to the waste of critical resources and environmental destruction.
Resource Consumption Comparison
- Dr. David Pimentel from Cornell University estimates that producing animal-based food can consume five to fifty times more land and water compared to an equivalent caloric intake from plant-based foods.
- The degree of resource usage varies based on factors like animal species and feeding practices (e.g., pasture-fed animals).
Global Food Resource Concerns
- The inefficiency of animal farming raises concerns, especially in a world where hunger remains a pervasive issue.
- The disparity in resource allocation presents a moral dilemma in addressing global hunger and environmental sustainability.
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Description
This quiz explores the environmental consequences of high consumption of animal-based foods, highlighting issues such as soil loss, groundwater contamination, and the depletion of natural resources. Based on research by Dr. David Pimentel, participants will learn about the significant land and water requirements of livestock production compared to plant-based alternatives.
