When you hear the term carbon emissions, you probably think of cars, factories, or power plants. However, what if we told you there’s another major contributor that often goes overlooked: food production—and that includes the food we feed our pets.

What are carbon emissions, exactly?

Carbon emissions are a type of greenhouse gas released into the atmosphere through activities like burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), managing waste, producing food, and certain chemical processes. The most well-known of these gases is carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Why do CO₂ emissions matter?

CO₂ stays in the atmosphere for a long time, trapping heat and contributing to climate change. Rising levels lead to higher global temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and increased stress on ecosystems that animals depend on to survive.

Yet, CO₂ isn’t the only gas we need to pay attention to.

Another (more potent) greenhouse gas

Methane is a greenhouse gas that’s over 25 times more potent than CO₂, and food systems are one of its largest sources.

Traditional animal agriculture plays a major role here. Producing conventional meat requires vast amounts of land, water, and feed, which generates significant greenhouse emissions along the way.

To put this into perspective:

• Producing just one pound of beef protein requires over 2,000 gallons of water

• More than 80% of Amazon deforestation has been linked to cattle ranching

• Animal agriculture is a top source of methane emissions

Since pet food relies on the same agricultural systems as human food, what goes into our dogs’ bowls carries a footprint too.

How can I help reduce emissions (especially methane)?

Reducing our carbon emissions doesn’t require dramatic lifestyle changes. In fact, studies show that small, attainable lifestyle changes are incredibly effective in combating climate change because they can be sustained over long periods of time. 

This can start with paying attention to the systems we interact with every day, including what we choose to feed our pets.

Rethink your proteins

One of the most effective ways to reduce methane emissions is to shift away from resource intensive animal agriculture, and toward protein sources that either require fewer resources—or avoid new resource use altogether.

Silver carp are an invasive species in the United States that need to be removed. Using them as a protein source helps restore our waterways while avoiding the emissions associated with farming new protein, since no additional land, water, or feed is required.

Another approach is shifting to alternative proteins such as cricket protein. Cricket farming produces zero methane and requires far fewer resources than conventional livestock. Brands like Chippin use cricket protein in their treats as a lower impact alternative to traditional animal proteins.

Reduce food waste where possible

When food waste breaks down in landfills, it produces methane. Composting food scraps, buying only what you need, and choosing products made with efficient ingredient sourcing can all help reduce waste at the system level.

Choose ingredients designed for efficiency

Spirulina is a nutrient dense algae that supports gut health while improving air quality by absorbing CO₂ as it grows and converting it into oxygen. It’s one reason Chippin includes spirulina in Veggie Dailies—not just for its nutritional value, but because it complements lower impact proteins as part of a more climate conscious food system.

A more thoughtful way forward

Reducing our carbon pawprint doesn’t require compromise. Just more thoughtful choices designed for a better future for our pets and the planet we share.