eat more plants: Why going vegan can help the environment

by quinn wilson

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Everyone wants to know how they can decrease their environmental impact, but they also don’t want to give up anything.  This is impossible; to make a positive impact on the environment, sacrifices have to be made.  By choosing a plant-based, or vegan, lifestyle you could decrease your carbon footprint by 73%.  Additionally, cutting out animal products has numerous health benefits.  If you still aren’t convinced here are some quick reasons why you should go vegan:

- Livestock farming accounts for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions.  
- 90% of water consumption is due to agriculture.
- Eating plant-based takes up ⅓ the amount of land that is needed to support a diet with meat and dairy.
- You can save the lives of 200 animals per year.
- You can reduce your risk of developing type II diabetes, cancer, heart disease, etc.
- Going vegan can help improve weight loss.
- Eating vegan is more humane and doesn’t support poor treatment of livestock animals.

Going vegan doesn’t have to be difficult.  Instead of focusing on what you cannot eat, focus on what you can eat: fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes.  Being vegan forces you to be more aware of what you put into your body, which is why veganism is great for the planet’s health and your health.  ​

Getting started can be a big leap to take, but there are so many resources available for you to learn more about veganism.  ​

Minimalist Baker has simple 30 minute or “One Bowl” vegan recipes like this 1-Pot Vegan Pasta

Linked: 1-Pot Vegan Pasta

Earthy Andy has colorful and nutritious recipes that leave you feeling full

Linked: Earthy Andy

Plant Based on a Budget has simple and affordable vegan recipes

Linked: Plant Based on a Budget

Deliciously Ella has so many yummy vegan friendly ideas such as this Sweet Potato, Lentil, and Coconut Curry

Linked: sweet potato, lentil & coconut curry

I hope this inspires you to go vegan and eat more plants!