Meat-free Mondays 'to save planet'

Together with his daughters Stella and Mary and a host of other A-list stars, the vegetarian former Beatle wants everyone to give up meat on Mondays.

The aim of the campaign - called Meat Free Monday - is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the world's livestock population, thought to be a major cause of global warming.

Sir Paul told the Independent: "Many of us feel helpless in the face of environmental challenges, and it can be hard to know how to sort through the advice about what we can do to make a meaningful contribution to a cleaner, more sustainable, healthier world.

"Having one designated meat-free day a week is a meaningful change that everyone can make, that goes to the heart of several important political, environmental and ethical issues all at once."

He added: "We should care about climate change because if we don't, we are going to leave our children and their children in a hell of a mess."

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation, meat production is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions. This compares to an estimated 13% from transport.

Sir Paul's late wife Linda was a noted vegetarian campaigner before her death in 1998, and a range of meat-free dishes bearing her name are still being sold.

The songwriter compared the issue to that of recycling when it was unfashionable several years ago. He said: "I think the time is right now for this idea."

Coldplay's Chris Martin, Hollywood stars Kevin Spacey and Woody Harrelson, actress Joanna Lumley and tycoon Sir Richard Branson are among those backing the campaign.