‘Tiger’, ‘Zebra’, and ‘Giraffe’ Make International Day of Forests Plea: Save the Earth – Go Vegan
Body-painted as a tiger, a zebra, and a giraffe, respectively, three PETA India supporters with signs proclaiming, “Eating Meat Contributes to Species Extinction – Try Vegan” and “Forests Are Destroyed for Meat Production – Go Vegan,” gathered in Jaipur in advance of the International Day of Forests (21 March), which was established by the United Nations. They informed passers-by that raising animals for meat, egg, and dairy is one of the biggest causes of the loss of species-rich habitats, and a major driver of biodiversity loss and species extinction.
Today, vast swathes of beautiful forests are being destroyed to clear land for animals raised for food and for the crops grown to feed them. This destruction of natural habitats not only accelerates climate change but also pushes countless wild species closer to extinction. What’s more, the meat industry remains the leading emitter of greenhouse gases that cause climate change, which negatively affects species’ ability to survive. PETA India’s message for this International Day of Forests is that the best way to save our planet and all those who live on it is to go vegan.
A study on Biodiversity Conservation concluded that meat consumption may be the single biggest threat to much of the world’s plant and animal life, especially as meat producers expand their operations in countries with the highest proportions of unique plant and animal species. In addition, an estimated 18 per cent of annual greenhouse-gas emissions can be attributed to the meat, egg, and dairy industries.
Each vegan person spares the lives of up to nearly 200 animals per year. In addition, people who eat vegan diet reduce their risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Raising animals for food is also a leading cause of water pollution and water and land use, and a United Nations report concluded that a global shift towards vegan eating is necessary to combat the worst effects of the climate catastrophe. PETA India offers a free vegan starter kit for those ready to switch.
