Thailand faces serious food security challenges

Economic benefits: $37 billion on the horizon

According to the report, reducing meat consumption by 50% could lead to savings of $37 billion (or 3.65 trillion rubles). This is a significant amount that can be used to develop other sectors of the economy, such as agriculture , technology and healthcare. What’s more, the switch to plant-based proteins could create over a million new jobs, which is especially important for a country where unemployment remains a pressing issue.

Sustainable agriculture and food security

Reducing meat consumption is also associated with improved food security. With an expanding population and growing demand for food , switching to plant-based protein sources could help the country become more self-sufficient in food production. This is especially true given that Thailand relies heavily on imported animal feeds such as corn and soy.

Importantly, increasing plant-based protein production could be achieved using existing farmland, minimizing environmental impacts and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 80%. This is in line with the country’s climate goals announced in 2021, when the government announced the creation of a biocircular economy as part of its national strategy.

Social and environmental aspects

Reducing meat consumption also has important social responsibility implications. Switching to plant-based proteins can improve public health, reduce disease and improve quality of life. It can also help combat climate change, as livestock is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

However, to successfully implement this strategy, existing government subsidies and livestock support programs need to be reviewed. This will allow resources to be directed towards the development of plant-based agriculture and innovative technologies that will help increase agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Reducing meat consumption in Thailand can be not only an economic breakthrough, but also an environmental one. Switching to plant-based proteins has the potential to strengthen the economy, create new jobs and improve food security. It is important that the government and society work together to achieve these goals, which will ultimately lead to a more sustainable and healthier future for all residents of the country.