Researchers say that going vegan is the single biggest thing you can do to help save the planet.
Preventing the exploitation of animals is not the only reason for becoming vegan, but for many it remains the key factor in their decision to go vegan and stay vegan. Having emotional attachments with animals may form part of that reason, while many believe that all sentient creatures have a right to life and freedom. Specifics aside, avoiding animal products is one of the most obvious ways you can take a stand against animal cruelty and animal exploitation everywhere.
Veganism represents a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, other animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of humans, other animals and the environment.
Being vegan protects other animals used and killed for human purposes Veganism is about so much more than the food on our plate. Veganism means respect for all life. Millions of other animals are kept in captive environments such as fur farms, zoos, safari parks, aviaries, breeding programmes, circuses and other ‘entertainment’, in private homes and ‘collections’, and in laboratories. The majority of mammals and bird species do not ‘thrive’ in captivity. They may ‘survive’ but all living beings have remarkable instincts and coping mechanisms to stay alive – there are many human examples too of horrific survival situations. That doesn’t mean quality of life is necessarily acceptable, let alone good.
To live as a vegan in a non-vegan world takes both courage and curiosity. Veganism has been around since 1944, but it’s still a relatively new concept to many people. It’s important you allow yourself time to learn about the various strands of veganism – and remember to pat yourself on the back along the way for the progress you’ve made.
The Vegan Society may have been established 75 years ago but veganism has been around much longer. Evidence of people choosing to avoid animal products can be traced back over 2,000 years. As early as 500 BCE, Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras promoted benevolence among all species and followed what could be described as a vegetarian diet. Around the same time, Siddhārtha Gautama (better known as the Buddha) was discussing vegetarian diets with his followers.
Read much more info on WHY to go VEGAN and HOW to DO IT.