Thiruvananthapuram: A single serving of pizza can generate between 20 and 25 kilograms of carbon emissions, according to a new white paper released by the Green Energy Forum, which is urging a rethink of modern eating habits to help tackle climate change.

The report estimates that a beef burger alone is responsible for around 7.78kg of carbon emissions. By contrast, emissions from staple foods are significantly lower: 200 grams of cooked rice produces just 0.19kg of carbon.

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Beef burger

The Forum says changing dietary patterns, particularly among younger generations, is essential to reduce the environmental impact of food consumption. Carbon emissions are calculated using a standard formula that accounts for the entire lifecycle of a product — from production and processing to transport and final consumption. In the case of fast food, emissions from ingredients such as meat, vegetables and cheese are all included.

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A similar lifecycle approach is used to estimate emissions from electronic devices, factoring in raw materials used in manufacturing and the product’s average lifespan.

The white paper highlights a sharp rise in global carbon emissions and calls for the widespread adoption of carbon-free initiatives. It recommends accelerating the transition to low-carbon systems across energy, transport, consumption, lifestyle choices and agriculture.

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Educational institutions should also play a role, the report says, by establishing Green Energy Student Movements to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices. Dr S Rathnakumar, General Secretary of the Green Energy Forum, said collective action at both institutional and individual levels is vital to curb the growing climate crisis.