Suggested by ELIZA K
Here are a number of reasons:
- Inefficiency: “In order to produce 1 lb. of protein in the form of beef, we must feed 21 lbs. of protein to the animal… the average ratio in the US is 1:8. It has been estimated that the amount of protein lost to humans in this way is equivalent to 90% of the annual world protein deficit.” – Peter Singer essay – A Utilitarian Defense of Animal Liberation.
- High emissions: New Zealand’s dairy industry is responsible for over half of NZ’s climate-changing emissions, more than that of the entire transport sector.
- Reducing carbon sinks: The dairy industry in NZ is also deforesting MASSIVE areas of pine to make way for corporate dairy farms, a double-whammy for the climate in the way it removes a carbon sink and replaces it with the most greenhouse gas-intensive industry ever!
- Cuteness: Lambs are freakin’ cute.