Exploring the impact of plant-based diets on environmental sustainability and human health

Plant-based diets are at the forefront of promoting human health and environmental sustainability. In addition, they play a critical role in preventing the extinction of many species, safeguarding land and water resources that humans utilize on a global scale, and mitigating the effects of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Whole food and plant-based diets have lower environmental footprints. As the world's population grows and the ecological consequences increase, more significant efforts are necessary to improve food system sustainability. Given these environmental advantages, plant-based goods are among the best ways to combat climate change and preserve natural resources while also contributing to the global sustainability goal. In public health, plant-based diets are associated with a lower incidence of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and specific types of cancer. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods rather than calorie-controlled diets may assist in weight management and improve overall wellness. However, this initiative to consume more vegetables is not without obstacles. This review highlights the current understanding of how plant-based diets can significantly impact environmental and health consequences. The challenges of consuming the appropriate amount of nutrients are examined in this review, along with ways to lower costs and increase accessibility. Moreover, the possible mechanistic pathways through which plant-based diets affect health and the environment are critically discussed, underscoring the gaps where further research is needed. Published by Bangladesh Society for Microbiology, Immunology, and Advanced Biotechnology (BSMIAB).

Keywords: Environment, Human health, Nutrient intake, Plant-based diets, Sustainable food.