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OIE to Study Climate Change Issue

For the first time ever, the World Organization for Animal Health says it will study the effect of meat production on climate change. OIE hopes to find some middle ground between the divisive points of view that have emerged on the issue. OIE Director-General, Bernard Vallat, says his organization will look at all of the issue's complicated aspects.

Internationally, environmentalists - including the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization - have focused on meat as a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Many call for a reduction in the consumption of meat. One element to consider is the wisdom of cutting back on production of meat, milk and eggs at a time when the world's growing population demands more protein.

Reuters quoted Vallat as saying that there is not yet a scientific model that can prove that our planet could do without milk, eggs or meat. Ultimately, the study would be expected to recommend areas of subsequent research in order to limit the effects of livestock and meat production on the environment.