When I tell people that I’m a vegetarian for environmental reasons, many do not immediately understand the connection between meat consumption and ecological sustainability.  A U.N. report from 2006 revealed that the meat industry produces more greenhouse gases than all automobiles, trucks, planes and boats combined.  The industrialization of the meat industry has driven down prices, while simultaneously introducing a number of unsustainable practices.  Lower prices mean greater demand, which places further strain on the environment.  U.S. meat consumption has increased from 144 pounds per person per year in 1950 to 216 pounds in 2004.

The Meatless Monday campaign is meant to counter the effects of this growing demand, while still taking into consideration than most individuals are not ready for a life completely devoid of meat.  Eating vegetarian food one day a week cuts meat consumption by approximately 15%, and demonstrates to lone-time omnivores that a meal need not contain meat to be nutritious and substantive.  Peruse this excellent resource for a variety of simple and delicious vegetarian recipes.

CAFO raised livestock versus free range

If giving up meat is completely out of the question, there are alternatives that inflict less harm on the environment.  Look for meat labeled “non-CAFO” which means the livestock was not raised in a confined, packed environment (CAFO stands for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation).  Also look for “grass-fed” or “free range” meat, which is another indication that the livestock was raised in a more natural environment (though the laws regulating these terms are fairly manipulable).  Finally, do some internet research to see if any CSA meat is available in your area.  Community Supported Agriculture programs promote local, seasonal and responsible farming practices, and usually maintain significantly higher standards than industrial farmers.