A letter published in the medical journal, The Lancet, suggests that growing rates of obesity are threatening the environment. The letter, which was submitted by a group of UK researchers, implicates obesity as one of the catalysts for increased oil consumption, food production, and ultimately the creation of more greenhouse gases.

“Eighteen percent more food energy is required in many populations where there is a large prevalence of obesity,” he said, citing a 460-calorie increase in daily food intake for an obese individual. “There is a clear impact in terms of greenhouse gas emissions in order to grow that food, said Phil Edwards, co-author of the letter and senior statistician at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in the United Kingdom. [ABC News]

While some obesity and nutrition experts say there is merit to the study’s rationale, they note that much of the research upon which the findings are based overlook a few very important well-known facts about food production.

“We throw away far more food that the extra 460 calories per day they point out,” said Dr. Tim Church, chairman in health wisdom at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. “In other words, most of our food overproduction is due to waste, not overeating. It is estimated that one-fourth of the food produced in the U.S. goes to waste.” Church added, “Does having 50 extra pounds in a Chevy Tahoe really affect gas mileage? I do not think so.” [ABC News]

Another concern raised by the assumed relationship between obesity and environmental stress is the stigma attached to the notion that overweight people are more of an eco-burden than their skinner counterparts. For more on the stigma factor, read on. Edwards concurs that all people, slim and less slim, are a burden on the environment, but he maintains his rationale.

For more on the links between obesity and the environment, read the full ABC News article, or check out the related links below. Be sure to and visit obesityaction.org, and get informed about bias, stigma, and discrimination due to weight.

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