It being Earth Month, I’m seeing a ton of people, companies, and various industries spreading around misinformation about reducing meat consumption and eating plant-based or vegan meals because they are better for our planet and environment.
There has been a significant increase in the number of people adopting veganism over the years due to various reasons such as animal welfare, health concerns, and environmental sustainability. Veganism is a dietary lifestyle that eliminates all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, from one’s diet. While veganism may seem like the perfect solution for reducing one’s carbon footprint, it doesn’t always equate to being eco-friendly. In this blog post, we’ll explore why being vegan doesn’t necessarily mean being eco-friendly. I’m referring to veganism below, but it also means plant-based.
- Processing and packaging of vegan products
Vegan products such as plant-based meat, dairy alternatives, and packaged vegan foods undergo various processing and packaging stages that require energy and resources. These products are often highly processed, packaged in plastic, and shipped from faraway locations. The processing of plant-based meat substitutes, for example, involves the use of chemicals, and the packaging materials used are not always recyclable, leading to waste accumulation. The transportation of these products also contributes to the carbon footprint, and the packaging materials used may end up in landfills, causing environmental pollution.
- Veganism and monoculture farming
The majority of vegans rely heavily on monoculture farming, where large areas of land are used to cultivate a single crop. This type of farming is responsible for environmental problems such as soil depletion, deforestation, and water pollution. Monoculture farming also requires the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, which have harmful effects on the environment and human health. Veganism may lead to an increased demand for plant-based products, leading to the expansion of monoculture farming.
- Imported vegan products
Most vegan products, especially exotic fruits and vegetables, are often imported from faraway locations, leading to increased carbon emissions from transportation. These products may be in high demand, leading to deforestation and land degradation in the countries of origin. The production of these products also requires the use of resources such as water and energy, leading to environmental degradation.
- Veganism and processed foods
The majority of vegans rely on processed foods such as vegan burgers, vegan sausages, and vegan cheeses, which often contain high levels of sodium, preservatives, and additives. These processed foods are associated with health problems such as obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. The processing of these foods requires energy and resources, leading to environmental degradation.
- Veganism and packaging waste
Vegan products often come packaged in plastic, leading to the accumulation of waste in the environment. Plastic pollution is a significant environmental problem that affects marine life, wildlife, and human health. The production of plastic requires the use of fossil fuels, leading to greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
- Veganism and food waste
Vegans are not exempt from food waste, and in some cases, they may contribute more to food waste than meat eaters. Vegan products such as fruits and vegetables often spoil faster than animal products, leading to increased food waste. The production of these products requires energy and resources, leading to environmental degradation.
- Veganism and intensive farming
Veganism may lead to an increase in the demand for plant-based products, leading to intensive farming practices such as hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics. These practices require large amounts of energy and water and may contribute to environmental degradation. While these practices may increase the yield of crops, they may also lead to soil depletion, nutrient loss, and the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, leading to environmental problems.
In conclusion, being vegan does not always equate to being eco-friendly. Veganism may lead to an increase in the demand for plant-based products, leading to environmental problems such as deforestation, monoculture farming, and increased carbon emissions from transportation. Additionally, the processing and packaging of vegan products, the use of plastic packaging, and the production of processed vegan foods can all contribute to environmental degradation.
It is essential to note that not all vegan products are harmful to the environment, and there are ways to minimize the environmental impact of veganism. For instance, buying locally sourced fruits and vegetables, reducing the consumption of processed foods, and choosing eco-friendly packaging can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with veganism.
Moreover, reducing food waste by planning meals and buying only what is needed can help reduce the demand for food production and the associated environmental impact. Supporting sustainable farming practices such as organic farming, regenerative agriculture, and permaculture can also help promote sustainable food production and minimize the environmental impact of veganism.
In conclusion, while veganism may seem like the perfect solution for reducing one’s carbon footprint, it is not always eco-friendly. Veganism can contribute to environmental problems such as monoculture farming, deforestation, and increased carbon emissions from transportation. However, adopting sustainable practices such as reducing food waste, supporting sustainable farming practices, and choosing eco-friendly packaging can help minimize the environmental impact of veganism. As individuals, it is essential to make conscious decisions and strive to adopt a sustainable lifestyle that considers the impact of our actions on the environment.
If you want to learn even more here are some of my favorite resources:
Article: Why Red Meat Isn’t Bad (Top 10 Myths Busted)
Video: Why people are saying cows are bad for the planet when they aren’t the cause of our climate change
Article: The Methane Myth: Why Cows Aren’t Responsible for Climate Change
What are ways you’re trying to be more eco-friendly? Check this blog post out for ideas!
Stay healthy (and eco-friendly!) my Friends!
XO,
Carrie A Groff
CG Fitness: Personal Training, Nutrition & Yoga 