(CNN) Air pollution from food production in the United States is linked to an estimated 15,900 premature deaths each year, according to a new study published Monday in the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Of those, an estimated 12,700 deaths -- around 80% -- are connected to production of animal-based foods. Scientists have known for years that farming contributes to harmful air pollution, but experts say this study offers the first full accounting of deaths connected to the production of certain types of food. "But it turns out that agriculture is also a major contributor to our air pollution and therefore we should care about it for our health." The study focused on a specific type of tiny pollution particles known as PM2.5.

Source: CNN May 11, 2021 03:00 UTC