November is World Vegan Month, an occasion recognizing the vegan lifestyle, which has health, animal welfare, and environmental benefits. Vegans avoid all animal foods including meat, fish, shellfish, and insects. A vegan diet is largely plant-based and can be rich in various delicious and nutritious foods, including vegetables, grains, nuts, legumes, seeds, and fruits. Not everyone who follows a plant-based diet is vegan, but both groups share a common goal of reducing the consumption of animal products. This year and in the past we have passed a resolution in the New York State Assembly to declare November 1st Vegan Day in New York State, recognizing the significant benefits of veganism on one’s health and the planet.
I have been a vegetarian/vegan for over 35 years. This change in diet fits my values, allowing me to live a healthier lifestyle and reduce my environmental footprint. Avoiding meat is one of the best ways you can be an environmentalist. As an animal lover, I also wanted to reduce the mistreatment of animals that is so prevalent in farming and food production. Although it was a large adjustment, I found myself feeling more energetic and when my partner and I had children, we decided to raise them with a plant-based diet.
Studies show that vegan diets can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Vegan diets also tend to be more nutritious, as they provide essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins while containing less total fat. Americans are beginning to realize this: 1 in 3 Americans is focusing on reducing or stopping their meat consumption. Furthermore, the Good Food Institute estimates that over the past six years, the vegan industry has more than doubled its market worth, standing at $8.1 billion in 2023. Americans are recognizing the benefits of a plant-based diet and adjusting their consumption habits.
A vegan diet also contributes to a healthier planet and helps mitigate the effects of climate change. Food production, processing, and consumption activities contribute to 30% of human-caused climate emissions and exacerbate environmental problems such as freshwater withdrawal, nutrient pollution, and biodiversity degradation. Cattle farming, in particular, is estimated to cause about half of the food-related climate emissions due to land use impacts and methane production. Veganism offers a solution that requires fewer resources and generates fewer emissions.
Animal welfare is also a core element of the vegan philosophy. By choosing not to support industries that exploit animals, individuals can reduce the demand for animal products, thereby leading to fewer animals being bred to suffer and die on farms and in slaughterhouses. Ethical veganism extends beyond food and influences choices around clothing, cosmetics, and household products, encouraging the use of cruelty-free alternatives.
As we celebrate World Vegan Day, it’s important to remember that every step counts whether you are fully vegan or simply striving to reduce your consumption of animal products. Even opting for one meatless meal a week will save the same amount of emissions as driving 348 miles in a car each year. Moving towards a plant-based diet helps create a healthier, more sustainable, and compassionate world, one plate at a time.
