Relationship between food consumption patterns and CO 2 emission in Japan

Abstract

Carbon dioxide emission as well as food consumption was compared based on the National Nutrition Survey data for 2002 and 1970. The food self-sufficiency rate was 40% and 60% in 2002 and 1970, respectively. In 1970, the dominant meal pattern was based on a intake of rice, miso soup, and pickles irrespective of the Japanese, Chinese, or Western food items. In 2002, the consumption of rice was greatly reduced while the consumption of meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits was increased both in quantity and variety. An ideal protein-fat-carbohydrate balance was achieved in 1970, while protein and fat intake was increased and carbohydrate intake was reduced in 2002. Carbon dioxide emission calculated from the 1970 diet was 907 g/ day/person, which increased by about three times to 2 743g/day/person in the 2002 diet. This increase achieved the goal of a reduction in carbon dioxide of 1 kg/day/person recommended by the Ministry of the Environment.