The Power of Veganism: Why Individual and Systemic Change Are Both Essential for Environmental Survival

Breaking Down the Debate: Individual vs. Systemic Change in Food Systems

The debate over whether individual actions like adopting a vegan diet can make a meaningful difference in combating environmental destruction often overshadows the critical role such choices play. Many environmental scientists agree that animal-based food production has a far greater environmental and climate impact than plant-based alternatives with similar nutritional value. However, the narrative often shifts to downplay the importance of veganism, suggesting that systemic change is the only viable path forward. But this perspective overlooks the interconnectedness of individual and systemic efforts. A growing body of research, including work by an interdisciplinary team at UCLA, argues that both individual actions and broader structural changes are necessary to transition toward plant-based diets and mitigate the environmental crisis.

Veganism Is Not Just a Lifestyle Choice: It’s a Powerful Tool for Environmental Change

Contrary to the belief that veganism is merely a personal lifestyle decision, it holds significant potential to drive environmental change. Compared to omnivore diets, plant-based diets contribute less to biodiversity loss, freshwater use, air and water pollution, antibiotic resistance, and human disease. Perhaps most critically, veganism plays a key role in addressing climate change. Studies suggest that adopting a vegan diet in the United States could reduce food system greenhouse gas emissions by 47 percent, while a global shift to plant-based diets could lower emissions by 49 percent. Given that the food system accounts for 10-30 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and 34 percent of global emissions, these reductions could translate to a 5-14 percent cut in total U.S. emissions and a 16 percent reduction globally.

The Bigger Picture: Veganism as a Social Movement

Veganism is more than just a dietary choice; it is part of a broader social movement with deep historical and cultural roots. For centuries, traditions in Asia, such as those rooted in dharma, have emphasized compassion in relationships between humans, animals, and the environment. Similarly, in the Global North, veganism has long been associated with opposition to animal exploitation and advocacy for human health and environmental protection. This movement challenges the status quo by highlighting the political nature of food production and consumption. By choosing plant-based options, individuals not only reduce their environmental footprint but also contribute to a collective effort to reshape the food system.

The Role of Systemic Change: Why Policy and Market Reforms Matter

While individual actions are important, systemic change is equally crucial to creating a more sustainable food system. The current subsidies and policies that support animal agriculture distort market signals, making plant-based options less competitive. Activists and organizations are working to reform these systems, aligning subsidies with recommendations for healthy, sustainable diets. However, the shift toward plant-based diets cannot rely solely on market forces. It requires a values-driven approach that prioritizes conservation, social justice, and compassion over economic growth. This perspective moves beyond the flawed assumptions of neoliberal economics, which prioritize efficiency and profit over people and the planet.

The Interplay Between Individual and Systemic Change

The idea that individual actions and systemic change are mutually exclusive is a false dichotomy. Research shows that these efforts are interdependent and reinforcing. For example, when individuals adopt plant-based diets, they reduce demand for animal products, creating momentum for systemic reforms. Similarly, policy changes can make plant-based options more accessible and affordable, encouraging more people to make sustainable choices. Studies demonstrate that even modest shifts in diet, when extrapolated across populations, can lead to significant reductions in emissions. For instance, UCLA research found that small dietary changes inspired by environmental education could contribute up to 33 percent of the reductions needed to meet the Paris Climate Accord targets.

Food as a Political Act: Harnessing the Power of Collective Action

The food system is a complex web of relationships that impacts consumers, workers, animals, and the environment. As people become more aware of the connections between food production and issues like climate change, public health, and social justice, veganism is emerging as a unifying force for change. By framing veganism as part of a broader movement for justice and sustainability, individuals can contribute to systemic transformation while making ethical choices in their daily lives. Climate scientists agree that massive societal change, including a shift toward plant-based diets, is essential to avoiding environmental catastrophe. In this context, veganism is not just a personal choice but a political act that can help build a more just and sustainable food system for all.

By recognizing the interconnectedness of individual and systemic change, we can harness the full potential of veganism to address the environmental crisis. The time to act is now, and every choice—whether in the kitchen or the voting booth—matters.