Meat consumption has sky-rocketed over the past 50 years. An increase in one's standard of living (mostly in developed countries) along with the fact that meat has become cheaper and more affordable, has led to an increase in meat consumption. Furthermore, a human population of more than 7.8 billion people has inevitably created more demand for meat and poultry consumption.
Unfortunately, this demand and supply system is functioning at the cost of our Earth and its natural resources. The truth is, with a human population this large, the Earth simply cannot meet such great demands to feed the amount of cattle we eat nowadays. Animal agriculture requires acres and acres of land for cattle to feed on, resulting in the fall of millions of trees and forests which are cleared in the process.
So, what can you do to help?
1) Engage in meatless Mondays - if you're a meat-lover, or is struggling with cutting down on your meat consumption, this is a great starting point! As the name implies, 'Meatless Monday' is an international campaign that encourages people not to eat meat on Mondays for the benefit of both their health and the planet's.
2) When eating out at a restaurant, opt for vegetarian or vegan alternative s- there are SO many delicious dishes on the menu that are plant-based and that are much healthier for you that do not involve meat.
3) Try a plant-based home-cooked meal - with more time on our hands this Christmas season, now would be a perfect opportunity to experiment with veggies and make some really hearty meals. From soups, to salads, to curries and casseroles, the floor is yours to create a multitude of yummy vegetarian meals!
4) Watch some documentaries or read books to better inform yourself on the link between meat consumption and environmental degradation, and how, with simply eating more plant-based meals you can contribute towards a more sustainable world.Some documentaries that can help are: Cowspiricy, Forks over Knives, What the Health, and David Attenborough: A Life on our Planet
Written by: Miriana Fenech Caruana