6.11 Lifestyle changes

In order to reach a net zero target many changes in lifestyle will also need to be taken into account, for example in diet and in modes of transport.

  • Diet: Agriculture is responsible for about a third of anthropogenic methane emissions, particularly from ruminant livestock such as sheep and cattle. A move to a more vegetarian diet, away from meat and dairy products should reduce global methane emissions. It will also free up land for increased reforestation and biofuel production.
  • Transport: Cutting CO2 emissions will require a move away from individual car use to less energy-intensive modes such as walking, cycling and public transport. New low-carbon aircraft fuels will need to be developed. Until this is done there will need to be less flying.