1kg - the costs of consumption by Benedikt Martini

The website 1kg – The Hidden Costs of Consumption uses infographics to explain the environmental and economic impacts of meat consumption. Inspired by the pioneering work of Otto Neurath and Gerd Arntz, the website transforms complex data into accessible visual narratives, making the consequences of industrial meat production comprehensible to a broad audience.

The visualizations highlight the inefficiencies and environmental burdens of industrial meat production, focusing particularly on the resources required and comparing them to alternatives. The website aims to raise awareness of the environmental and economic impacts of meat consumption. Its goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions, spark curiosity and provide an entry point for deeper exploration.

By focusing on the production of just one kilogram of meat, the extensive resources required are revealed, including water use, land use and greenhouse gas emissions. The website includes an interactive calculator and visualizer that show users the personal impact of their meat consumption, encouraging them to reflect on the broader implications of their dietary choices.

By using scrollytelling techniques and animated visualizations, the website keeps users engaged while guiding them through the story. These dynamic elements enhance the experience, making the content both compelling and easy to navigate.
The data is presented in an engaging and understandable manner, often in the form of pictorial quantity diagrams. This approach aligns with Neurath's belief that visual education can bridge language barriers and enhance public understanding of critical issues.