As most people know, climate change is a very important issue that needs to be addressed. Having heard about movies such as “Food Inc.” and “Cowspiracy” I was curious as to how the meat industry truly affects the environment. I found some really shocking numbers and information on Gale. The meatpacking industry first was brought into the world view by Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle” which led to the Meat Inspection Act of 1906. Last year 25.1 billion pounds of beef alone was consumed by Americans. About 30% of the world’s total ice-free surface — is used not to raise grains, fruits and vegetables that are directly fed to human beings, but to support the chickens, pigs and cattle that we eventually eat. Not only does it take up space where plants could be growing, but it is estimated that the meat industry contributes about 15$ of the greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Cows and sheep emit large quantities of methane. It is estimated that a vegan diet might make as much as a 20% difference to your overall carbon impact but simply cutting out beef will deliver a significant benefit on its own. I’m looking forward to learning more about this topic and finding out ways to help.
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2017/jan/19/how-to-reduce-carbon-footprint https://www.jhsph.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/johns-hopkins-center-for-a-livable-future/projects/meatless_monday/resources/meat_consumption.html
Photo by streetwrk.com 
The topic you have chosen is one that is not only relevant to America, but it is also relevant to the meat industry all over the world. In your research, it would be nice if you also give example of different meat companies and how the workers feel in that environment. Also discuss more about Upton Sinclair’s “ The Jungle,” and the type of reaction it created within local consumers and citizens.
This PETA article might help with your research. It provides a lot of evidence on the effects of the meat industry on the planet. http://www.peta.org/living/food/10-things-wish-everyone-knew-meat-dairy-industries/