Do Vegans Kill More Animals Than Meat-Eaters? (spoiler alert: no they definitely don’t!)
Choosing a vegan lifestyle raises many questions, including a very provocative one: “Do vegans kill more animals than meat-eaters?” As someone who has pondered the ethical implications of my dietary choices, I find this topic particularly compelling. In the early days of my vegan transition I came across this argument and I wondered how veganism could be bad for animals. It’s not just about what we eat but how our food choices impact the world around us.
The complexity of this issue goes beyond simple dietary preferences and touches on environmental sustainability, animal rights, and our responsibility as consumers. By exploring various aspects of agriculture and its effects on wildlife and habitats, we can better understand the true impact of our eating habits.
No, Vegans Do Not Kill More Animals Than Meat Eaters … the PROOF!
This is actually a really easy one to understand. The argument is that growing crops results in field deaths of mice, birds voles and other animals who live in or near arable land … and of course there will be some animals killed in this process (it’s way fewer than many claim though).
So, because vegans need crops to be grown to survive, we’re actually responsible for more animal deaths overall.
Problem is, this argument falls flat on it’s face when you consider that the majority of crops grown globally are used to feed animals.
So even if the crop deaths argument was valid (it isn’t) then meat and dairy consumption still kills more animals overall.
Here’s a well sourced article with a more detailed breakdown …
1. Understanding Veganism
Definition of Veganism
Veganism is a lifestyle choice that seeks to exclude, as far as is practicable and possible, the use of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. Personally, I found that shifting to a vegan diet was more than just avoiding meat and dairy; it meant rethinking my entire approach to consumption.
Ethical Motivations
Animal Rights
The primary ethical motivation for veganism is the belief in animal rights. Vegans argue that animals should not be exploited or killed for human benefit. For example, I chose veganism after learning about the harsh realities of factory farming and the dairy industry in particular, where animals are often kept in inhumane conditions and treated barbarically.
Environmental Concerns
Another significant motivation is the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Meat production is a leading cause of deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. When I switched to a vegan diet, I did a lot of research and I realised how much less water and resources my food required, which felt like a positive step towards reducing my personal carbon footprint.
Health Motivations
Many people turn to veganism for health reasons, believing that a plant-based diet can lead to better health outcomes. I was blown away when I experienced improved energy levels, libido and overall health after making the switch.
2. Agricultural Practices
Plant-Based Agriculture
Crop Cultivation Methods
Plant-based agriculture involves growing various crops like vegetables, grains, and fruits. These crops often require different cultivation methods, including crop rotation and organic farming practices. We always try to support local farmers who use sustainable practices, as it feels good to know my food is grown in a way that respects the earth.
Impact on Wildlife
While plant-based agriculture aims to be more sustainable, it can still impact wildlife. For instance, fields of crops can displace natural habitats for many small animals. However, I find that choosing organically grown produce helps minimize the use of harmful pesticides, which is a small step towards protecting wildlife.
Animal Agriculture
Factory Farming Practices
Factory farming is notorious for its inhumane treatment of animals and its detrimental effects on the environment. Animals are often kept in cramped conditions, are routinely given antibiotics and hormones to promote rapid growth. When I learned about these practices, it reinforced my commitment to avoiding animal products.
Land and Resource Use
Animal agriculture requires vast amounts of land and resources. For example, raising cattle for beef consumes significant water and land compared to growing crops. By choosing a vegan diet, I feel like I’m contributing to more efficient use of our planet’s resources.
It’s quite simple really … we seem to be able to feed 92 billion land animals with plants every year but we struggle to feed 8 billion humans. There’s a clue there.
3. Environmental Impact
Land Use Comparison
Deforestation for Grazing vs. Crop Farming
Meat production often leads to deforestation, as forests are cleared to create grazing land for livestock. This process not only destroys habitats but also contributes to climate change. In contrast, crop farming typically uses less land, especially when sustainable practices are employed. My conscience is definitely eased knowing my food choices help preserve the world’s beautifully abundant forests.
Water Consumption
Water Usage in Livestock Farming
Raising animals for food requires a lot of water, from growing their feed to hydrating the animals themselves. For instance, producing a pound of beef can use up to 1,800 gallons of water. In comparison, plant-based foods like lentils and beans require significantly less water. This is one of the reasons I feel confident in my decision to eat plant-based foods.
Water Usage in Plant Farming
While plant farming does use water, the amount is generally much lower than that required for livestock. Choosing crops that are less water-intensive, like grains and legumes, helps further reduce water usage.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Emissions from Livestock
Livestock farming is a significant source of greenhouse gases, particularly methane, which is much more potent than CO2. This contributes to global warming and climate change. Cutting out meat from my diet for over 20 years now feels like a direct way to lower my carbon footprint.
Emissions from Plant Agriculture
Although plant agriculture also produces emissions, they are generally lower compared to livestock farming. Sustainable farming practices, such as using less synthetic fertilizers and adopting no-till farming, can further reduce these emissions.
A Thoughtful Choice: Veganism’s Impact on Animal Welfare and the Environment
Choosing a vegan lifestyle isn’t just about avoiding meat and dairy; it’s about making a thoughtful choice that reflects a commitment to animal welfare and environmental sustainability. By understanding the broader implications of our dietary habits, we can make more informed decisions that align with our values.
Embrace the Change: Your Path to a Greener Future
Switching to a vegan diet can significantly reduce your environmental footprint. From lowering greenhouse gas emissions to conserving water and preserving habitats, every plant-based meal is a step towards a greener future. I’m finding more and more that these changes not only benefit the planet but also bring a sense of fulfillment knowing that my choices matter.
Join the Movement: Try Our Free Meal Prep Plan
Embarking on a vegan journey might seem daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Our free 7 day vegan meal plan PDF is designed to make the transition easier and more enjoyable. With delicious recipes and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll discover the joys of plant-based eating. Not only will you be supporting your health, but you’ll also be contributing to a more sustainable world.
Give it a try and see how rewarding a vegan lifestyle can be!
I hope you enjoyed my burblings, if you did then you might like this article of mine, also on Medium: “Why Veganism? Why Now?”
Thank you so much for reading :-)
- Rohan McAvee @ Vegan Slate
