As many countries' economies develop, their meat consumption expands more quickly than their population. This planet may be able to sustainably feed 10 or 11 billion vegetarians, but not that many meat-eaters. The Union of Concerned Scientists has found that the meat industry is the second largest source of pollution in America afterautomobiles. Most Americans can eat meat only because they've never seen a factory farm or slaughterhouse. Billions of animals should not be forced to lead lives of pain.
Vegetarianism is healthy, veganism more so.
It is a great way to avoid heart disease. Also, the only way to avoid consuming above the EPA recommended limit of dioxins is by being vegan. Dioxins accumulate in animal fat and milk and cause cancer and birth disorders. Most Americans consume 20 times more than the EPA limit. Vegetarians and vegans live longer.