What is the plant-based movement?
The plant-based movement, also known as plant-based, is a movement that promotes a plant-based diet and an ethical and sustainable lifestyle. This movement has developed largely in response to environmental and health problems related to the production and consumption of animal products.
This movement focuses on promoting a plant-based diet that includes fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes and seeds. It promotes the consumption of whole, unprocessed and organic foods. The plant-based movement also focuses on ethics and sustainability, and promotes a reduction in the consumption of animal products to reduce animal suffering and protect the environment.
It is a movement that has gained popularity in recent years, with a growing interest in vegan diets and reduced consumption of meat and dairy products. It has been driven by a growing awareness of the environmental and health issues related to the production and consumption of animal products, as well as the increased availability of vegan food and dining options.
There are several organisations and celebrities supporting this movement, and it has become increasingly common to see plant-based options on restaurant menus and supermarket shelves.
How did it start?
The plant-based movement has its roots in various movements and schools of thought, some of which go back centuries. However, the movement as it is known today has developed largely in the last few decades. Some of the important milestones in the history of the plant-based movement include:
1970s
The vegan movement develops in the UK and the US, driven by ethical and health concerns. In 1975, the Vegan Society was founded in the United States and became one of the first organisations to promote a vegan diet and lifestyle.
1990s
The movement continues to gain popularity around the world. In 1991, the book “Diet for a New America” by John Robbins is published, which becomes a bestseller and helps to raise awareness of the environmental and health problems related to the production and consumption of animal products.
2000s
The vegan movement merges with the environmental movement, and more vegan options begin to appear in restaurants and on supermarket shelves. In 2003, Vegan Outreach is founded, dedicated to educating people about the benefits of a vegan diet.
2010s
The plant-based movement gains popularity worldwide. Several scientific studies are published supporting the health benefits of a plant-based diet and several books and documentaries are published promoting a plant-based diet and ethical and sustainable lifestyle.
2020s
The plant-based movement continues to gain popularity and becomes an increasingly relevant issue in society, with a growing awareness of the importance of reducing the consumption of animal products to protect the environment and reduce animal suffering.
Benefits of the plant-based movement
This movement has several benefits for both personal health and the environment. Some of these benefits include:
Improved health
A plant-based diet is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease and some cancers.
Weight loss
A plant-based nutrition can help with weight control due to its fibre and low calorie content.
Environmental improvement
Meat and dairy production is a major cause of deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. The plant-based movement promotes a reduction in the consumption of animal products, which contributes to the protection of the environment.
Reducing animal suffering
This movement promotes a reduction in the consumption of animal products, which means not supporting the meat and dairy industry, where animals are raised and slaughtered en masse.
Greater food variety
A plant-based diet offers a wide variety of foods, which can make it easier to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
Increased nutrient intake
If we eat plant-based foods they can provide a large amount of essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre.