Reasons to Choose a Vegetarian Lifestyle

In an effort to really make a positive impact on the environment it is important to take a look at the true significance of the actions you are or are not taking. What is conventionally referred to as green living encompasses a number of things, some more effective than others. For some people this means reducing the number of miles they drive, while other take it as a calling to use energy safe appliances. Both of these are a step in the right direction, but how is the impact of this type of conservation in comparison to other types of living decisions? In the industrialized world the most significant source of pollution and environmental destruction is for factory farming. Every year the amount of water waste, air pollution, and habitat destruction, both domestically and internationally, is profound as a result of meat farming. The method for having the largest backlash against this industry is to avoid it all together. Here are a few reasons to consider going vegetarian once and for all.

The environmental concerns are first on the list because it in general is taking the largest hit. Factory farming has become the standard for meat production, where the process of accruing large profits comes far over sustainability. With this there are massive amounts of deforestation, water and soil pollution, and a generally high rate of pollution. Its mechanisms and massive scale leaves it more environmentally destructive than any other industry, and the reduction of the industry would have the largest possible effect on reducing carbon emissions and other ecological factors. Even when it comes to commercial hunting and fishing many species are in serious decline and the eco-systems that they inhabit are falling apart.

It goes without saying that the life of an animal raised for meat production is an unsavory one. Today they are kept in small cages, so small that they seldom even have the ability to do common body motions. They often go through very painful procedures, such as anesthetic free castration and branding. Since they have to churn out a product quickly and efficiently, the quality of life for these animals is rarely if ever considered. They are abused regularly and not considered as having their own autonomous self. These cruel conditions do not apply just to monstrous delicacies like Veal or Faux Grois, but most meat in production. A refusal to take part in this system is a statement about how animals should be treated.

Today meat is tainted by a variety of toxins, both intended and accidental. The conditions of the farms leave a large amount of synthetic and natural waste to secure into the meat, not the least of which comes from progressively sick livestock. They are routinely pumped full of steroids, growth hormones, and anti-biotics, which are leading to health pandemics throughout the human population that eat them. More recently we have disturbing diseases like Mad Cow, which come directly from mutations that occur when one animal is fed to another of the same species. Even meat itself is not the healthiest choice, as we have been told our whole lives to focus more on fresh fruits and vegetables.

Animal products themselves have been linked to a number of illnesses, and even the treatment of many life threatening diseases such as Lupus involve a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. This food choice often reduces cholesterol and usually caloric intake as well. If you set a vegetarian standard you will likely be able to eat freer within these confines.