Early in July we published a blog about the link between obesity and global warming. A new study called A Silver Lining? The Connection between Gas Prices and Obesity by Charles Courtemanche from the University of Washington in St. Louis claims that when petrol prices have risen in the US, obesity has shown a corresponding fall of as much as 10 per cent, as demonstrated by statistics. The equation is simple: cheaper petrol, more usage of cars, more global warming and more obesity as cars replace people’s legs in their everyday lives.
The study says that with the recent rises in oil prices, obesity levels should be following suit soon as more people are going to walk to work and pack their own lunches, which tend to be healthier than the food they will get at restaurants and fast food outlets. The change in attitude should also put more pressure on local governments to improve public transport networks.
