Living with compassion and kindness towards animals is beautiful - and it can be as simple as choosing plant-based meals and vegan-friendly clothing! Some people talk about veganism like it’s an exclusive club, but it’s not about that at all. It’s simply a way of life that seeks to minimize the harm we cause to animals.
Here are some of the many reasons why we choose veganism for the furry, scaly, and feathered beings we share our planet with.
Animals deserve love and kindness too!
Did you know that almost a quarter of the American population is now taking steps to reduce their meat intake, with animal welfare being the fourth most important reason for doing so?
We live in a human-centric world, but the animal population also deserves our respect and compassion. Animals feel fear, pain and grief - just like we do - and we can choose to limit how much we contribute to this. Even just a small shake-up of our food, clothing and entertainment choices can help to protect the well-being of mammals, birds, fish and insects!
We have the power to challenge all forms of cruelty
The factory farming industry may be the largest perpetrator of animal suffering, but unfortunately, it’s not the only one. Sigh. Many businesses benefit from exploiting animals, including those in the fashion, beauty and pharmaceutical industries.
Swapping meat for plant-based products is a great way to start living more consciously, but many vegans decide to go a little further by avoiding anything that causes animal death or suffering. This could be by swapping leather shoes for faux alternatives and only shopping for cosmetics that haven’t been tested on animals.
Veganism doesn’t compromise our health or happiness
The commoditization of animals is so deeply ingrained in our culture that we’ve been led to think we need animal products to live happily and healthily. Thankfully, this is slowly starting to change.
It’s now easier than ever to pick up plant-based groceries from the store. Vegan apparel brands are popping up all over the world. Thousands of companies are leveling up the ethical toiletries game. We can even drive leather-free cars, get tattoos with vegan ink and find supplements to replace every nutrient.
Veganism is no longer just about lentils and compromises! We can now do pretty much anything while living harmoniously with the animal world.
Remember - the perfect vegan doesn’t exist
Veganism is not an all-or-nothing contract. We’re all just trying our best! The perfect vegan will never exist, as it’s impossible to only ever support 100% ethical practices. But, what we can all do is take small steps towards becoming kinder and more compassionate beings.
Why not start by swapping the dairy in your morning coffee for oat, or choosing the vegan option next time you go out for dinner? These small changes could have a major impact.
Curious about veganism but not sure where to begin? We’ve got you! Check out our favorite plant-based recipes, listen to our podcast, and sign up to our mailing list to stay in the know.
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