The toll exacted on human health by a diet laden with saturated fat and cholesterol is devastating, and thoroughly documented. Because of over-consumption of fish, all 17 of the world's major fishing areas have reached or exceeded their natural limits. One-third of the world's fish catch is fed directly to livestock. 5 million acres of rainforest are felled every year in South and Central America alone to create cattle pasture.
Animal agriculture is a chief contributor to water pollution.
America's farm animals produce 10 times the waste produced by the human population. Many farmers are rediscovering the farming methods of their grandfathers and augmenting this with new knowledge of sustainable techniques. These are achieving the same or greater yields without the use of costly, harmful and soil-depleting petrochemical fertilizers and pesticides. Only a profound change in consumer demand can prevent a total collapse of the seas and the soils. By eating a varied plant-based diet, you can easily get all the nutrients you need to lead a healthy active life.