The milk we regularly encounter at our local grocery store can easily be divided into two categories: dairy (animal-based) and dairy-free (plant-based). Between the two, dairy-free milk is undoubtedly better for the environment. Within the category of dairy-free milk, there is no definitive order for which is more sustainable than the other. However, learning the impacts of each milk option can help you address whichever environmental issue you are most passionate about!
In my opinion, the level of greenhouse gas emissions that is required with producing dairy milk is far more consequential than the degree of other environmental impacts that come with plant-based milk. It is inevitable for any mass-produced crop to induce some kind of environmental impact. Nonetheless, the shortcomings of non-dairy milk production are nearly insignificant in comparison to the global issues caused by animal milk. Making the eco-conscious decision to consume plant-based milk if you can afford it is already a significant step towards a more sustainable lifestyle!