Alternatively, we eat as much meat and figure out how to reduce emissions in other ways. Meat production is part of the equation but its focus in these discussions seems largely agenda-based than anything else. It's a convenient scapegoat.
> according to the (disputed) literature suggesting meat is necessary for a balanced diet.
Meat being necessary hinges on veganism being a legitimate replacement. Is veganism legitimate as a full-on replacement? No, it's not. At least not yet. If or when it does become that, then yeah, meat won't be necessary. Right now it's mostly a viable option for relatively healthy adults with a lot of money to spend.