The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2105, there may be 700 million obese adults worldwide, as well as an estimated 2.3 billion overweight adults. Clearly, losing weight can dramatically improve your health, mood and appearance. But now, there may now be yet another reason to drop those extra pounds. You see, studies show that weight gain may be contributing to global warming!

In a study published recently in Lancet, researchers found that obese and overweight people require additional fuel to transport themselves, as well as the food they eat. And unfortunately, these increased fuel needs may be contributing to food shortages AND higher energy prices. Experts predict that as the world’s population continues to increase, the food shortages and higher energy prices will continue to increase, as well.

The researchers determined that 40% of the global population would eventually be considered “obese.” The BMI is a calculation of height to weight. “Normal” scores typically ranges from 18-25; scores of more than 25 are considered “overweight,” while anything above 30 is “obese.” According to one of the researchers, Phil Edwards, many nations will approach or have already approached a body mass index (BMI) of near 30. The researchers found that obese people require 1,680 daily calories to sustain normal energy and another 1,280 calories to maintain daily activities, 18% more than someone with a stable BMI.

Thinner people eat less and are more likely to walk, not drive. Therefore, a slimmer population would lower the fuel needs for transportation and agriculture. This is especially important, as 20% of greenhouse gas emissions are caused by agriculture. “The next step is quantifying how much a heavier population is contributing to climate change, higher fuel prices and food shortages,” says Edwards. The researchers believe that a normal BMI distribution would reduce the global demand and the price of food. “We are all becoming heavier and it is a global responsibility,” says Edwards. “Obesity is a key part of the big picture.”