The European Vegetarian Union (EVU) has launched a groundbreaking report, the “Plant-Based Manifesto,” which sets ambitious targets to transform European diets by increasing the share of plant protein. This vision aligns with scientific recommendations and addresses critical health, environmental, and economic issues.
Setting Ambitious Targets for Plant Protein
The manifesto outlines a progressive plan to boost plant protein intake across Europe, with targets of 60% by 2030, 70% by 2040, and 80% by 2050. These targets are essential given the current overconsumption of animal protein and the minimal production of plant-based proteins such as pulses, which occupy just 2% of agricultural land. This is in stark contrast to the 80% increase in meat production since the 1960s.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
The environmental impact of current dietary trends is alarming. Beef, the most climate-damaging and resource-intensive meat, dominates the EU’s agricultural output. If cattle were an EU member state, it would be the second largest in population. Shifting towards plant-based diets is crucial for mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity.
Health and Economic Benefits
The manifesto highlights the severe health implications of current diets, with almost 1 million deaths per year in the EU attributed to poor dietary habits. Aligning with the EAT-Lancet planetary health diet, which recommends drastically lower meat and fish consumption, could significantly reduce global mortality and healthcare costs. Studies suggest that fully plant-based diets have the potential to save up to 8 million lives annually.
Policy Recommendations for a Plant-Based Future
To achieve these targets, the manifesto calls for robust policy changes:
- Implementing subsidies and incentives for plant-based food production.
- Integrating plant-based nutrition into public health guidelines and educational curricula.
- Supporting research and development in plant-based food technologies.
- Helping farmers transition from animal agriculture to plant-based farming.
Changing Consumer Habits
Despite challenges, European consumers are beginning to shift their eating habits. Plant-based milk alternatives now represent 11% of the EU milk market, and sales of plant-based products increased by 49% between 2018 and 2020. Surveys show that over half of Europeans are reducing their meat consumption, with significant declines in countries like Germany and the Netherlands.
Call to Action for EU Voters
For a vegan Europe, the manifesto urges voters to support candidates who advocate for:
- Plant-based policies in public institutions and health guidelines.
- Sustainable agricultural practices and reduced reliance on animal farming.
- Strong animal welfare laws.
By voting for these candidates, Europeans can drive the transition toward a healthier, more sustainable, and compassionate future.
Candidates to Support for a Vegan Europe
To advance the vision of a plant-based Europe, it is crucial to support candidates who advocate for sustainable vegan policies. Here are some political parties and candidates known for their commitment to these values:
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- European Green Party:
- Ska Keller (Germany) – Co-President of the Greens/EFA group in the European Parliament, a strong advocate for environmental policies and sustainable development.
- Bas Eickhout (The Netherlands) – Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from the GreenLeft party, known for his stance on climate action and sustainability.
- Eleonora Evi (Italy) – MEP focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, and sustainable agriculture.
- GreenLeft (GroenLinks) in the Netherlands:
- Tineke Strik – MEP working on issues related to environmental justice and sustainable agriculture.
- UK Green Party:
- Caroline Lucas (United Kingdom) – Member of Parliament (MP) known for her advocacy for environmental sustainability and animal welfare.
- Molly Scott Cato – Former MEP with a focus on sustainable food systems and reducing meat consumption.
- European Green Party:
VegNew.World’s Position
At VegNew.World, we are not affiliated with any political party and do not endorse any specific candidates. Our goal is to advocate for laws and policies that support a plant-based future, benefiting health, the environment, and animal welfare. We believe in creating a better future through informed voting and policy support.
