As Europe pursues sustainability goals, a study by Simon et al. (2024) unveils the potential of circular food systems to revolutionize protein consumption. Here are the key insights:
Land Use Reduction: Circular systems can slash land use by up to 60%, offering a promising solution to resource scarcity.
Lower GHG Emissions: By implementing circular principles, greenhouse gas emissions can plummet by as much as 81%, aiding in climate change mitigation.
Protein Intake Balance: Maintaining a 40:60 ratio of animal to plant proteins optimizes environmental benefits, striking a balance between protein sources.
Nutrient Adequacy: Diets with less than 18 g of animal protein per day risk nutrient deficiencies, highlighting the need for nutrient-dense crop production.
This research underscores the transformative potential of circular food systems in achieving environmental sustainability without compromising nutritional needs. By integrating circular principles into policy and dietary guidelines, Europe can pave the way for a healthier planet and population.