Dogs have a bigger carbon footprint than many 4x4s, new research suggests.
Two research scientists from New Zealand, Robert and Brenda Vale, have analysed the environmental impact of household pets in relation to other aspects of everyday life, including driving.
In their book -- the brilliantly titled 'Time to Eat the Dog' -- they claim that it takes 0.84 hectares of land to generate the energy needed to sustain a dog for a whole year. By comparison, a Toyota Land Cruiser needs just 0.41 hectares.
The new research also suggests that the environmental impact of a cat is largely equivalent to that of a Volkswagen Golf.
Robert Vale said, "We're not saying that we think SUVs are a good idea, but we did find it interesting how they have been vilified for their damage to the environment, while pets have been completely ignored."
So, if you're thinking of buying a new car, make sure it's not a Rover. Ahem.
