World Bank Urges EU to Shift Farming Subsidies Away from Meat Production

The World Bank has released a new report urging the European Union and other high-income countries to reduce subsidies for emissions-intensive meat production and redirect them towards fruits, vegetables, and other greener food options. The report emphasizes the importance of achieving net-zero emissions in the fight against climate change.

The World Bank argues that high-income countries must promote sustainable food options, decrease consumer demand for animal-source foods, and fully account for the environmental and health costs associated with meat production. They stress that this shift in subsidies can help boost national incomes, make healthy diets more affordable, and significantly reduce agricultural emissions.

The EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) often faces criticism for its disproportionate support of livestock farming. The World Bank’s recommendations come amidst the EU’s attempt to “decouple” its subsidies framework, but the report highlights that more substantial changes are needed.

The report also emphasizes the importance of food labeling, education, and communication campaigns to promote low-emission food choices. It finds that a shift towards healthy, sustainable diets has enormous potential to reduce emissions and conserve land and water resources.

The World Bank calls for increased investments in agrifood mitigation and policies that support the adoption of low-emission technologies. They stress that the financial investments are urgently needed and project substantial health, economic, and environmental benefits from taking action.