Your food choices affect Earth's climate

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What is the relationship between food production and environmental costs?

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Different food production practices use resources like water and chemicals like pesticides which negatively impact the environment.

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What is the main purpose of the text regarding food choices?

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To inform readers about how the types of food they eat have environmental costs.

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What does 'equivalents' refer to in the context of greenhouse gases?

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The amount of CO2 needed to warm Earth’s atmosphere by the same amount as the methane or nitrous oxide.

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What is the central idea of the text about food and the environment?

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The types of food people eat and the way that it is produced has varying costs for the environment, ranging from releasing pollution to wasting resources.

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What is a carbon footprint?

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The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by an individual, organization, event, or product, usually expressed in equivalent tons of CO2.

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How does meat production impact greenhouse gas emissions?

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Meat production is associated with higher greenhouse gas emissions compared to plant-based foods due to methane released by livestock and land use changes.

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What are some sustainable food production practices?

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Sustainable practices include organic farming, crop rotation, and reduced use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

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Why is water usage a concern in food production?

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Food production can consume large amounts of water, leading to depletion of water resources and affecting ecosystems.

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What role do pesticides play in food production?

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Pesticides are used to protect crops from pests but can harm non-target species and contaminate soil and water.

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How can individuals reduce their environmental impact through food choices?

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By choosing locally sourced, seasonal, and plant-based foods, individuals can lower their carbon footprint.