Calculadora de Pegada Vegana
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
CO₂e_vegano = proteína_kg/dia × 365 × 2,5; CO₂e_onívoro = proteína_kg/dia × 365 × 27
About this calculator
The Vegan Footprint Calculator compares greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂e) of a vegan diet versus an average omnivorous diet. The calculation is based on daily protein intake, multiplied by specific emission factors: 2.5 kg CO₂e per kg of plant protein and 27 kg CO₂e per kg of animal protein. The result shows the annual difference between the two dietary patterns.
This tool is useful for people who want to understand the environmental impact of their food choices, especially when considering a transition to a vegan diet. It also serves to educate about the carbon footprint associated with food production, highlighting how diet can contribute to reducing global emissions.
When using the calculator, enter the amount of protein consumed per day (in kg). The calculation assumes that the vegan diet uses sources like legumes, grains, and vegetables, while the omnivorous diet includes meat, dairy, and eggs. Note that emission factors are averages and may vary depending on food origin and production methods.
Cautions: values are estimates and do not consider other aspects such as transportation, processing, and waste. The calculator assumes a typical Brazilian omnivorous diet; results may differ for other regions. Use as an awareness tool, not as precise scientific analysis.
Frequently asked questions
How does the calculator define the average omnivorous diet?
It uses an emission factor of 27 kg CO₂e per kg of protein, based on studies that consider typical Brazilian consumption of meat, dairy, and eggs.
What does CO₂e mean?
CO₂e is carbon dioxide equivalent, a measure that standardizes different greenhouse gases in terms of their global warming potential.
Can I use the calculator for vegetarian diets?
Not directly. The calculator only compares vegan vs. omnivorous. For vegetarian, the factors would be different as it includes dairy and eggs.
Does the calculator consider processed foods?
No. The emission factors are averages for unprocessed plant and animal proteins. Processed foods may have different footprints.
Why is protein used as the basis?
Protein is a key nutrient present in both diet types, allowing a direct comparison based on the same dietary component.