Eco-Friendly Diet Could Prevent 15 Million Deaths Annually

A new analysis suggests that adopting an eco-friendly diet, known as the planetary health diet, could prevent approximately 15 million deaths globally each year. This diet emphasizes a high intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while significantly reducing consumption of meat and dairy. According to the 2025 Eat-Lancet Commission, following this dietary pattern is linked to a 27 percent reduction in the risk of premature death, alongside lower incidences of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases.

The planetary health diet primarily consists of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes, with limited amounts of fish, dairy, and meat. The commission’s report highlights that, currently, national diets worldwide deviate significantly from this recommended pattern. Researchers estimate that if populations shifted towards the planetary health diet, it could avert 15 million deaths annually, representing 27 percent of total global deaths.

Johan Rockstrom, co-chairman of the commission and director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, emphasized the urgent need for a transition to this diet. He stated, “Transforming food systems is a significant environmental and social challenge, but it is a precondition for us to have a chance of returning within a safe climate system and a healthy planet.”

The dietary guidelines recommend consuming around 150 grams of whole grains (approximately three to four servings) and 500 grams of fruits and vegetables (at least five servings) daily. Additionally, the plan suggests 25 grams of nuts (one serving) and 75 grams of legumes (one serving) each day. Moderate consumption of animal products is advised, including 200 grams of red meat (up to one serving per week), 400 grams of poultry (up to two servings per week), and 700 grams of fish (up to two servings per week).

The commission’s findings also highlight the environmental benefits of this dietary shift. By reducing the demand for resource-intensive foods such as red meat, the planetary health diet could significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions and decrease land and water use. Researchers predict that if the global population adopted this diet, greenhouse gas emissions could drop by more than half—equivalent to removing emissions from all coal-fired power plants worldwide.

Dr. Helen Croker, assistant director of research and policy at the World Cancer Research Fund, noted the importance of aligning healthy diets with sustainability. She stated, “The commission provides welcome clarity on the vital challenge of supporting healthy diets which are sustainable and accessible to all globally.” Croker also pointed out that research funded by her organization supports the benefits of such a diet, particularly for individuals recovering from cancer.

Despite the potential benefits, the report indicates a significant disparity in access to healthy food. Approximately half of the world’s population—about 3.7 billion people—lack reliable access to nutritious food, a clean environment, and a living wage. The diets of the wealthiest 30 percent are responsible for around 70 percent of the environmental pressures arising from food systems.

The 2025 Eat-Lancet Commission urges governments to take decisive action to promote healthy eating. Recommendations include implementing taxes on unhealthy food products and offering subsidies for fruits and vegetables, thereby making healthier options more accessible to all.

As the global community grapples with the challenges of food sustainability and public health, the planetary health diet emerges as a viable solution capable of enhancing health outcomes and fostering environmental resilience.