The abolition of slavery is imho a significant global achievement, with its roots often found in individual acts of resistance and advocacy. However, as you rightly pointed out, it's essential to recognize that forms of modern slavery still persist today, be it through forced labor, human trafficking, or child labor. While the institutionalized systems of slavery seen in the past have largely been dismantled, the fight against modern forms of slavery should continue.

> Are there any real global changes that started with individual actions?

We should probably define what you mean by "real global changes" if the abolition of slavery doesn't qualify. I'll try anyway.

1. Rachael Carson's "Silent Spring": Her seminal book, "Silent Spring," wasn't just an American wake-up call but catalyzed a global environmental movement. It laid the groundwork for the creation of environmental agencies and legislation in multiple countries and sparked a broader awareness of human impacts on the environment.

2. The Tunisian Butterfly Effect: Mohamed Bouazizi's self-immolation in 2010 was a tragic act of protest against police corruption in Tunisia. This act played a significant role in the onset of the Tunisian Revolution and the subsequent wider Arab Spring, leading to significant political changes in several countries across North Africa and the Middle East.

3. The Chipko Movement from India: Starting in a small village in India in the 1970s, villagers hugged trees to prevent their felling. This non-violent resistance spread, making the Chipko movement a touchstone for environmental campaigns across Asia and beyond.

4. Nelson Mandela: While his primary focus was against apartheid in South Africa, Mandela's resilience and commitment to justice transformed him into a global symbol for resistance to oppression. His actions and teachings influenced movements and leaders around the world.

5. Greta Thunberg: Starting as a single individual protesting in front of the Swedish parliament, she inspired millions around the world to advocate for climate action. While it's yet to culminate in a universal solution, her individual act has galvanized global discourse and awareness on the issue.

Each of these examples, and many more, underscores the idea that an individual or a small group's actions can create ripple effects that influence and inspire global change.

Turning to the topic of veganism, it's evident that we no longer rely on animal products for our health or sustenance. When individuals transition away from these products, they often gain a clearer perspective on the vast environmental damage caused by such diets. Animal agriculture is a prime contributor to deforestation and biodiversity loss; astonishingly, animal species have witnessed a 70-90% decline in just the past 50 years. Looking ahead, we're racing against time to safeguard the remaining ecosystems, crucial for the environmental services upon which we heavily rely.

If everyone were to continue consuming meat and dairy without questioning its impact, then who would advocate for the end of these environmentally destructive practices? Our innate focus on immediate needs, like our next meal, can blind us to the broader picture. It's a human tendency to resist change, especially when it involves something as personal as our diet. But we must rise above these fears, looking beyond the contents of our refrigerators, and consider the long-term well-being of our planet.