Ryan

https://www.inspiredrisk.com/

"Vegans kill more animals than non-vegans." Sounds like something you might hear at a family dinner or on an ill-informed podcast. You’ve probably heard it from anti-vegan folks. They argue that growing crops for plant-based foods, like soy, corn, or wheat, kills more animals, like insects, rodents, and birds. And on top of that, they claim vegans are too naive to realize animals are killed by crop farming.

Really, though? Is that actually the case?

The main source of direct animal deaths in our food system is animal agriculture. This is where billions of animals, intentionally, are bred, raised, and slaughtered every year for meat, eggs, and dairy. And yes, it’s a huge number. It’s estimated that over 70 billion animals are killed globally each year for food. That’s billions of chickens, cows, pigs, and more, all bred and raised with a single purpose, to end up on someone’s plate.

And that's not even counting the impact of industrial fishing. Trawlers, with their massive nets, can capture hundreds of thousands of fish in one haul. But the toll doesn’t stop there. These giant nets also trap bycatch; animals like turtles, whales, dolphins, manta rays, and sharks that weren’t intended for capture, but suffer the same fate. This bycatch often includes endangered species and wreaks havoc on marine ecosystems, contributing to the decline of marine biodiversity.

Not only that, but the agricultural industry, particularly livestock farming, is one of the leading causes of habitat loss around the world. Forests and grasslands are cleared to make way for grazing land or to grow animal feed, displacing wildlife and reducing biodiversity. This loss of habitat is devastating for countless species and is another major consequence of our food system.

Crop farming does cause some harm to animals, specifically, incidental deaths. But here’s the key part: these deaths are incidental. They happen because we’re growing food to feed humans, not to deliberately kill animals for food or profit. So, while the harm is unfortunate, it’s not even in the same ballpark as the systematic, intentional killing that occurs in the meat and dairy industries, where animals are often trapped in horrendous conditions that amount to torture. Plus, the majority of crops grown around the world are actually used to feed the animals that are raised for slaughter. Vegans aren’t supporting industries that breed and slaughter animals specifically for food, and that makes a huge difference.

Vegans are reducing harm on a massive scale. By cutting out animal products, vegans directly reduce the demand for animal agriculture. That means fewer animals bred, raised, and slaughtered for meat and dairy, and fewer crops grown to feed the 70 billion animals raised per year for food, meaning fewer animals are killed in crop harvesting. And what about the environmental impact? Well, it’s not just about the animals. The entire system of plant-based food production has a much smaller carbon footprint than meat production. It uses less water, less land, and produces fewer greenhouse gases.

We should absolutely care about minimizing harm in crop farming too. There are better farming practices like organic farming, regenerative agriculture techniques, and even wildlife corridors that can protect animals’ habitats. But the key difference is that veganism is part of a broader movement to reduce harm and promote sustainable food systems. It’s about moving away from systems that breed and kill animals for profit.

Does being vegan cause more animal deaths than eating meat? Absolutely not. In fact, it’s the exact opposite. By choosing plant-based foods, we’re reducing the demand for factory farming, lowering our environmental impact, and helping to end the systemic killing of animals for food.

#vegan #veganism #plantbased

https://www.inspiredrisk.com/

Have you ever wondered why some vegans make their food look like meat? Vegan burgers that sizzle like beef, crispy "chicken," or plant-based sausages that resemble their butchered counterparts — what’s the deal with this trend? Is it hypocritical? In this video, we explore the reasons behind these plant-based innovations and how they’re redefining what it means to eat sustainably.

From ethical choices and environmental benefits to making social connections through food, we dive into why vegan food that looks like meat isn’t just for vegans — it’s a game-changer for everyone. Whether you're a meat-eater, flexitarian, or considering a plant-based diet, you'll see how these alternatives help reduce harm to animals, protect our planet, and promote better health without sacrificing the flavors you love.

Health & Environmental Benefits - Plant-based meats not only reduce your environmental footprint but also offer healthier alternatives with lower saturated fat and more fiber. Learn about the innovations in plant-based food science that make these alternatives satisfying and delicious.

Cultural and Social Connections - Family barbecues, holiday dinners, and social gatherings are often centered around food — and vegans want to be a part of it too. Discover how plant-based meat alternatives help create inclusive moments, allowing everyone to enjoy a meal together, without feeling left out.

Expanding Possibilities - It’s not just about mimicking meat. It's about expanding the possibilities of food and embracing a more sustainable, health-conscious future.

If you’re willing and able, here are just some actions you can take for Conservation, Climate Change and Animal Welfare;

. Adopt a Plant-Based Diet: Reducing or eliminating animal products lowers demand for factory farming, which is a major driver of deforestation, habitat destruction, animal cruelty and greenhouse gas emissions.

. Support Sustainable Brands and Companies: Choose products and services from companies that prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, reducing emissions, minimizing waste and animal welfare in their practices, such as those with certified Fair Trade, organic, or cruelty-free labels.

. Advocate for Wildlife Protection Laws: Support and raise awareness about policies that protect endangered species, regulate hunting, and safeguard critical habitats from destruction through legal means.

. Reduce Energy Consumption: Cut down on electricity and fuel use by investing in energy-efficient appliances, utilizing renewable energy sources, and adopting green practices like switching off lights when not in use and reducing car travel.

. Plant Trees and Support Reforestation Efforts: Trees are vital in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, protecting biodiversity, and supporting wildlife habitats. Participate in local tree-planting initiatives or donate to organizations focused on reforestation.

. Conserve Water: Freshwater is a limited resource, and conserving water helps maintain critical ecosystems and supports agricultural and wildlife needs.

. Educate and Raise Awareness: Spread knowledge about conservation, animal welfare, and environmental issues. Sharing information on social media or in your community can inspire others to take action.

. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by opting for reusable products, recycling materials, and choosing items with minimal packaging to reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources.

. Volunteer for Conservation Projects: Donate time to wildlife rescue centers, local environmental groups, or global conservation organizations. Direct involvement in conservation efforts can have a meaningful impact on local ecosystems.

. Choose Eco-Friendly Travel: When possible, opt for sustainable travel options like walking, biking, or using public transport.

. Advocate for Climate Policy: Contact local representatives, vote for pro-environmental policies, and join climate advocacy groups pushing for legislative change.

. Compost: Start composting organic waste to reduce landfill contributions and improve soil health.

. Support Sustainable Tourism: Travel responsibly by choosing eco-friendly tours and hotels that prioritize sustainability and wildlife protection.

. Support Wildlife Corridors: Advocate for and support the creation of wildlife corridors that help animals move safely through their habitats.

. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives: Join local efforts to clean up beaches, rivers, or parks to remove trash that can harm wildlife.

. Practice Sustainable Gardening: If you're growing a garden, use eco-friendly techniques that reduce pesticide use and support biodiversity.

. Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting rescue animals instead of buying from breeders or pet stores, helping reduce the demand for animal breeding and the number of animals in shelters.

#vegan #plantbased #meatalternatives

https://www.inspiredrisk.com/

Yellowknife Phorotographer, Lenora Barrett discusses her approach to ethically and respectfully photographing wildlife.

https://www.facebook.com/LenoraBarrettPhotography2015

If you’re willing and able, here are just some actions you can take for Conservation, Climate Change and Animal Welfare;

. Adopt a Plant-Based Diet: Reducing or eliminating animal products lowers demand for factory farming, which is a major driver of deforestation, habitat destruction, animal cruelty and greenhouse gas emissions.

. Support Sustainable Brands and Companies: Choose products and services from companies that prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, reducing emissions, minimizing waste and animal welfare in their practices, such as those with certified Fair Trade, organic, or cruelty-free labels.

. Advocate for Wildlife Protection Laws: Support and raise awareness about policies that protect endangered species, regulate hunting, and safeguard critical habitats from destruction through legal means.

. Reduce Energy Consumption: Cut down on electricity and fuel use by investing in energy-efficient appliances, utilizing renewable energy sources, and adopting green practices like switching off lights when not in use and reducing car travel.

. Plant Trees and Support Reforestation Efforts: Trees are vital in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, protecting biodiversity, and supporting wildlife habitats. Participate in local tree-planting initiatives or donate to organizations focused on reforestation.

. Conserve Water: Freshwater is a limited resource, and conserving water helps maintain critical ecosystems and supports agricultural and wildlife needs. Use water-efficient fixtures, avoid wasting water, and support organizations that protect freshwater ecosystems and wetlands, which are vital for both wildlife and human communities.

. Educate and Raise Awareness: Spread knowledge about conservation, animal welfare, and environmental issues. Sharing information on social media or in your community can inspire others to take action.

. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by opting for reusable products, recycling materials, and choosing items with minimal packaging to reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources.

. Volunteer for Conservation Projects: Donate time to wildlife rescue centers, local environmental groups, or global conservation organizations. Direct involvement in conservation efforts can have a meaningful impact on local ecosystems.

. Choose Eco-Friendly Travel: When possible, opt for sustainable travel options like walking, biking, or using public transport. When traveling long distances, support eco-conscious tourism operators that prioritize conservation and minimize their carbon footprint.

. Advocate for Climate Policy: Contact local representatives, vote for pro-environmental policies, and join climate advocacy groups pushing for legislative change.

. Compost: Start composting organic waste to reduce landfill contributions and improve soil health.

. Support Sustainable Tourism: Travel responsibly by choosing eco-friendly tours and hotels that prioritize sustainability and wildlife protection.

. Support Wildlife Corridors: Advocate for and support the creation of wildlife corridors that help animals move safely through their habitats.

. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives: Join local efforts to clean up beaches, rivers, or parks to remove trash that can harm wildlife.

. Practice Sustainable Gardening: If you're growing a garden, use eco-friendly techniques that reduce pesticide use and support biodiversity.

. Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting rescue animals instead of buying from breeders or pet stores, helping reduce the demand for animal breeding and the number of animals in shelters.

#photography #wildlifephotography #wildanimals