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FOOTPRINT
How animal agriculture impacts the environment
Today, many people are concerned about our environment. Despite the amount of coverage and discussion regarding climate change, pollution, deforestation, ocean dead zones, and loss of habitat for wildlife, one major driving cause is often left off the table. As it happens, animal agriculture significantly contributes to many environmental concerns. From producing planet-warming greenhouse gases to using large amounts of land and freshwater resources and contributing to water pollution and ocean dead zones, animal farming is also the leading cause of deforestation, which in turn is the leading cause of habitat loss and species extinction. The impact of animal agriculture on our planet cannot be overstated.
Our planet's well-being is inextricably linked to the choices we make. During this week, we'll be delving into the profound impact of animal agriculture on the environment. By understanding the connections between our actions and the planet's health, we're taking steps toward a greener future where sustainability is woven into every decision.
Pledge to tread lightly.
Save the planet by choosing animal-free options that leave a lighter footprint.
Consider making choices that are kinder to our planet and the wildlife we share it with.
As we embark on our Compassion 2 Action Month journey, we turn our attention to the profound impact of our choices on the environment. From the food we consume to the clothing we wear and the entertainment we enjoy, every decision ripples through the ecosystem. Join us as we explore how animal agriculture touches on critical issues like land use, water resources, habitat preservation, and species survival. By pledging to consider the footprint of our actions, we're fostering a more harmonious relationship with the planet we share
HOW PRODUCING ANIMAL PRODUCTS IMPACTS EARTHS WATER RESOURCES
Australia is the driest inhabited continent on Earth. Characterised by highly variable climate patterns, Australia faces recurrent droughts and flooding.
Fresh water is critical to the survival of all living beings. It is not only essential for survival, but it is less plentiful than you might imagine. Only 3% of all water on Earth is freshwater, including water frozen in glaciers (which accounts for more than half). Because freshwater is a vital and limited natural resource, the animal agriculture industry's high water use is a growing concern.
LAND USE
HOW PRODUCING ANIMAL PRODUCTS IMPACTS EARTHS LAND RESOURCES
Intense competition for land resources exists across Australia. Today, over half of our continent is used for agriculture, with a staggering 86% of that taken up by animal agriculture. Aside from the sheer scale of land taken up by farm animals, raising animals for food and fibre has a vast and largely negative impact on native vegetation, soil and biodiversity.
CLIMATE IMPACT
HOW PRODUCING ANIMAL PRODUCTS IMPACTS EARTHS CLIMATE
Animal agriculture is a major contributor to many drivers of climate change. Clearing land for farmed animals is the major cause of deforestation in Australia, and deforestation is the main driver of habitat loss which in turn leads to species extinctions. Carbon released from cleared forests adds to the warming of our environment, as does the vast quantities of greenhouse gases created by farmed animals. Producing animal products requires an incredible amount of land and water and leads to water pollution which exacerbates ocean dead zones.
WILDLIFE
HOW PRODUCING ANIMAL PRODUCTS IMPACTS WILDLIFE
Animal agriculture impacts wildlife in many ways. Native animals face widespread habitat loss through deforestation for cattle farming, added pressures of adapting to a changing climate with more extreme weather events, and hunting and persecution due to perceived threats to farmed animals.
