Sociodemographic differences in dietary greenhouse gas emissions in Finland

Abstract Background Food systems are one of the major contributors of anthropogenic global warming with an estimated share of about one third of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHGEs). Food consumption and energy intake vary between population groups. Therefore, we aimed to study the differences in dietary GHGEs by sex, age, education, income and urbanization level of residential area. Methods Data from the national FinDiet 2017 Survey were used (n = 1655, age 18-74, response rate 53%). Diet was assessed by two non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls. Food consumption and energy intakes were calculated using in-house software and the national food composition database Fineli. Energy under-reporters identified with the EU Menu methodology were excluded resulting in a study sample of 565 men and 682 women. Dietary GHGEs were calculated using climate impact coefficients produced with life cycle assessment by the Natural Resources Institute Finland. Data on sex, age and urbanization level were obtained from registers and on education and income from questionnaires. Regression analysis was used to test the mean differences between sociodemographic groups. Results The mean daily dietary GHGEs were higher in men (5.6 (95% CI 5.4-5.8) kg CO2eq) than in women (4.0 (3.9-4.1) kg CO2eq) and higher in younger age group (18-44 years) than in older age group (65-74 years): in men 6.2 (5.8-6.6) vs. 4.3 (4.0-4.6) and in women 4.3 (4.1-4.5) vs. 3.5 (3.3-3.6) kg CO2eq, respectively. No significant differences by other studied sociodemographic factors were seen. Conclusions The differences between the sexes and between age groups may be partly explained by higher energy intake and higher overall food consumption in men and in younger age groups. In future analyses, consideration of energy intake is needed. At a research and policy level, it is essential to design and implement effective measures for sustainable dietary changes while providing an appropriate energy intake in all population groups. Key messages • The dietary greenhouse gas emissions (GHGEs) are higher among men than women and among younger than older age groups in Finland. • A shift towards more plant-based diets across all population groups with a special focus on men and younger adults would promote population health and help to lower the dietary GHGEs.