Raising livestock on a mass scale is a serious drain on the planet – the meat industry is a big contributor to water pollution and global greenhouse gas emissions. If you're not ready to give up meat in the name of the environment, however, try choosing to dine on more sustainable varieties.
A 2014 study reported that livestock-based food production causes about one-fifth of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Further, according to the study, beef production is by far the worst culprit of environmental degradation. Its production requires 28, 11, five, and six times more land, irrigation water, GHG, and reactive nitrogen impacts, respectively, than the average of the other livestock categories.
Some companies like Niman Ranch raise meat in a more sustainable way. Others like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat make plant-based "fake meat" that'll give you your protein fix without the environmental footprint.