According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 14.5% of total global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions comes from livestock. Out of that 14.5%, almost half is from the production of beef. One might ask if this is simply due to a higher rate of consumption compared to other meats, but beef per serving has a disproportionately higher impact as well. One 4oz serving of beef produces over 3x the amount of GHG emissions compared to pork. There are many contributors to this disproportionate impact. For example, one serving of beef requires 7x more land than a serving of pork. Beef accounts for 88% of all land dedicated to animal products in the United States. Beef production also requires excessive amounts of water consumption. Chicken and pork are both 60% more water efficient than beef.

At Pitzer, we have committed to the core tenet of environmental sustainability both as students and as an institution. As the climate crisis continues to accelerate, it is paramount that we recognize its severity and act accordingly. This demands making sacrifices and truly committing to mitigation efforts. By eliminating beef we will also emerge as a leader, encouraging other schools and institutions to do the same. As a community, we have the opportunity to greatly reduce emissions by banning beef at Pitzer, among other crucial initiatives. Stand in solidarity with 5C Divestment, Sunrise Claremont, Green Mondays, and EcoCenter, and take action.

By signing this petition you are making a statement in support of eliminating beef from McConnell Dining Hall and all school-run cafes to help mitigate the climate crisis.