Scotland’s Edinburgh is the first capital city in Europe to sign the Plant Based Treaty, a doctrine that lays out a transition towards a more sustainable, plant-based food system. The Plant Based Treaty (PBT) was created to help governments shift municipalities away from animal agriculture to better handle the climate crisis.
As a global climate leader, Edinburgh is stepping up by promoting plant-based food across the city, which will ultimately help people make different food choices for their personal health, the health of the planet or the welfare of animals. The PBT was first introduced to Edinburgh City Council in March 2022 by Green Councilor Steve Burgess and it stated that 23% of Edinburgh’s consumption-based footprint and nearly half (12%) can be attributed to meat consumption.
The PBT promises to support reduced environmental impact, as well as health benefits for individuals, and animal protection.
City-Wide Plant-Based Treaties
Scotland’s Edinburgh Signed the Plant Based Treaty
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Transition - Cities and governments worldwide can sign plant-based treaties to shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable food systems, presenting opportunities for plant-based food companies to cater to a newly growing market.
2. Climate-conscious Consumption - Consumers are becoming more environmentally and health-conscious, leading to a growing trend of plant-based diets and reduced meat consumption, presenting opportunities for businesses to offer eco-friendly and healthy alternatives to traditional meat-based products.
3. Animal Protection - The shift towards plant-based food systems supports the welfare of animals, presenting opportunities for businesses to cater to a market that values ethical and sustainable practices and offers plant-based alternatives.
Industry Implications
1. Plant-based Food Industry - Companies that offer a range of plant-based food alternatives have a significant opportunity to cater to the growing demand and transition towards a more eco-friendly eating habit.
2. Environmental Conservation Industry - Companies working towards environmental conservation can collaborate with governments and organizations to implement sustainable food systems and reduce the carbon footprint of cities offering a growing market for their services.
3. Animal Welfare Industry - Organizations that work towards animal welfare can take advantage of the growing trend to support ethical and sustainable practices and offer consulting services to governments and organizations seeking to implement plant-based food systems.