Plant-based action plans are government climate change mitigation strategies that promote plant-based food development, production and consumption. The best known is the international Plant Based Treaty. Some countries have developed their own plans, or announced intentions to develop plans, including Denmark and South Korea, as have cities including New York City.[1][2]
Plant Based Treaty
Launched in 2021 at COP26 in Glasgow, the Plant Based Treaty is an international treaty that has been signed by cities around the world that has the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from animal agriculture. It encourages carbon labeling on menus and transitioning to plant-based meals on school menus, known as vegan school meals, and council menus.[3] It is modelled on the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.[4]
The treaty calls for:
- an end to the expansion of animal agriculture;
- the promotion of a shift to sustainable plant-based diets;
- and an effort to "reforest and rewild" planet Earth.[5]
Los Angeles became the 20th city to endorse the treaty when the Los Angeles City Council voted to support it in October 2022.[6] In 2023, Edinburgh was the first European capital city to sign the treaty.[7] In January 2024, Exmouth became the fifth UK council to endorse the treaty.[4] Amsterdam became the 26th municipal council to endorse the treaty.[8]
The Plant Based Treaty released its Safe and Just report at the COP28 climate talks in Dubai.[9] The Plant Based Treaty advocates did not have access to the negotiating sessions during COP28. Instead they held a rally in support of the treaty. "The emissions from the food system alone will put the 1.5 and 2C climate target out of reach," Plant Based Treaty science ambassador Steven George said at COP28.[10]
Denmark
The Danish Handlingsplan for plantebaserede fødevarer was launched on 13 October 2023 to reduce emissions and complement the government dietary guidelines.[11] It follows a political agreement in Denmark from 2021. The plan includes training of public and private kitchen chefs on preparing plant-based meals, more plant-based food in primary schools and curricula, as well as export initiatives for Danish plant-based food. The plan complements a 1 billion kroner (€168 million) government investment for plant-based startups.[12]
South Korea
The South Korean action plan was announced in 2023 and includes the promotion of plant-based exports, but in contrast to Denmark, includes R&D support with the installation of an alternative food research support centre.[2]
New York City
The New York City action plan includes many elements. In 2023, all the NYC Health + Hospitals were serving plant-based meals as the primary dinner option.[13] The plan includes the Eat A Whole Lot More Plants health promotion campaign.[14] The New York City Public Schools serve plant-based meals on Fridays, and older adult centers, homeless shelters, and jails serve plant-based meals once each week.[15]