‘Mega-consumers’ of food and energy cost environment $5.7tn a year, study finds
A new study reveals that the world's wealthiest 10% of the population are responsible for $5.7 trillion in environmental damage annually. This impact, driven largely by food consumption and energy use, exceeds the economic output of most nations.
Why it matters
The findings underscore the disproportionate environmental footprint of high-income consumers and the urgent need to address systemic consumption patterns to mitigate climate change.
A plane flies over a slum in Parañaque, Metro Manila, the Philippines. Energy use, including air travel, is a substantial driver of the climate crisis. Photograph: Francis R Malasig/EPA View image in fullscreen A plane flies over a slum in Parañaque, Metro Manila, the Philippines. Energy use, including air travel, is a substantial driver of the climate crisis. Photograph: Francis R Malasig/EPA Environment ‘Mega-consumers’ of food and energy cost environment $5.7tn a year, study finds Top 10% generate climate and biodiversity damage bill that exceeds economies of most countries, say researchers
The focus on wealth inequality and environmental impact aligns with progressive economic and climate discourse.
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