This April 22 marks the 44th anniversary of Earth Day, and while today's celebrations often revolve around large festivals featuring famed musicians or rallies calling upon lawmakers to stop global warming, the origins were rooted in something quite different. In 1970, Earth Day was, first and foremost, about empowering individuals to take meaningful actions in their everyday lives that, collectively, would contribute to the preservation of our planet.
So what are some simple steps we can take to make a difference? Sure, we can use energy-efficient light bulbs, install low-flow toilets or switch to a hybrid car. But perhaps the single most important action each of us can take to protect the planet is to switch from a meat-based to a more plant-based diet.
The scientific consensus is clear, and it's time we, as consumers, face the facts: Raising animals for food is a leading cause of pollution and resource depletion.
According to the United Nations, animal agriculture is responsible for nearly one fifth (18%) of all global human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, and "livestock are one of the most significant contributors to today's most serious environmental problems." The UN also reported that "A substantial reduction of impacts [from agriculture] would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change away from animal products."