Ghanaians have been urged to reduce their meat consumption as a vital step towards sustainable living, with the potential to improve their personal health and protect the environment.

Importance of Meat Consumption

• Meat consumption has been linked to various non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, kidney stones, obesity, and some cancers.
• Excessive meat intake can put pressure on the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney stones and other kidney problems.
• Meat production is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change.

According to recent studies, only 27.8 per cent of Ghanaian youth consume sufficient fruits and vegetables, a concerning trend that highlights the need for change.

Meatless Monday Initiative

1. The Meatless Monday initiative, launched by Communication Initiatives for Change (CIC), encourages individuals to abstain from meat one day a week to improve their health and reduce their environmental footprint.
2. The initiative promotes the consumption of sustainable foods, reduces food waste, and fosters a culture of composting food waste.
3. CIC’s “Meatless Monday” initiative focuses on environmental preservation and raising awareness about the importance of protecting the Earth.

The initiative aims to educate individuals on the benefits of sustainable food choices and encourage them to adopt healthier eating habits.

Converting Food Waste into Compost

“You can have a farm or a backyard where excess food goes into. You can dig a hole create your own composite and set up your own farm,” said Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, Environmental Chemist.

The conversion of food waste into compost is a sustainable solution to reducing waste and promoting environmental preservation.

Benefits of Reducing Meat Consumption

Reducing meat consumption can help lower greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.

Excessive meat intake can lead to non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.