Protecting Our Planet—and Animals—One Meal at a Time
Polluting with our Forks
Animal agriculture is considered one of the leading causes of pollution and resource
depletion today. In fact, a recent report published by the United Nations’
Food and Agriculture Organization reveals that livestock production generates more
greenhouse gas emissions than transportation1.
In other words, what we eat may contribute more to global warming than what we drive.
The United Nations’ reports further states that raising animals for food
is a major source of land and water degradation:
“Livestock are one of the most significant contributors to
today’s most serious environmental problems. Urgent action is required
to remedy the situation.”
- Henning Steinfeld, United Nations, 2006
Wasting Resources
It also takes more land, water, and energy to produce meat, milk, and
eggs that it does to produce plant-based foods. It’s several times more
efficient to eat plants directly rather than funnel them though farmed animals.
In the U.S. alone, more than 10 billion birds, pigs, and cows are raised
and killed for human consumption each year. According to the Audubon Society,
roughly 70 percent of the grain grown and 50 percent of the water consumed in
the United States are used by the meat industry2.
Choosing Vegetarian for the Earth
Each of us can help protect the planet—and animals—one meal at
time simply by eating vegetarian foods. And with so many meat-, egg-, and
dairy-free options available today, choosing a more sustainable and compassionate
diet is easier than ever.
Take Action by Distributing Our New Flyer: Sustainable Eating
Encourage others to fight global warming—and animal abuse—with
their forks by distributing our new brochure. We're offering free copies
throughout the month of April, so
order some flyers today!
References
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http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2006/1000448/index.html
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Resolutions for a New Millennium, Audubon News, Jan. 1, 2000.
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