World Bank proposes radical shift in dietary subsidies to combat climate change

Julian Lampietti, the World Bank’s manager for global engagement in agriculture and food, emphasized the urgency of addressing the environmental impact of food production, stating, “We have to stop destroying the planet as we feed ourselves.”

The proposal, outlined in a new paper, argues that redirecting the billions currently spent on subsidizing CO2-rich products towards lower-carbon options could be one of the most effective strategies to mitigate climate change. This move, while potentially contentious, is seen as crucial in light of agriculture and food sectors contributing nearly a third of global greenhouse gas emissions.

As nations gear up to revise their climate plans under the Paris Agreement, the World Bank is advocating for increased focus on agriculture and food industries, which have historically received inadequate funding and attention. The report suggests that an annual investment of $260 billion is needed to slash emissions from these sectors by 2050, a substantial increase compared to current levels.

By adjusting subsidies and pricing animal-sourced food to reflect its environmental impact more accurately, the World Bank believes that low-carbon food options can become more competitive in the market. Shifting towards plant-based diets, according to the report, could yield significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, with meat and dairy production currently accounting for nearly 60% of agri-food emissions.

Lampietti cautioned against turning the issue into a divisive cultural debate, emphasizing the need for a data-driven approach. He stressed the importance of focusing not only on what should be avoided but also on promoting sustainable alternatives. However, he expressed concerns that the proposal could become politicized, detracting from its potential impact on combating climate change.