Animal protection organization Animal Outlook is hosting its 15th annual VegWeek this week, leading up to Earth Day on April 22. The week-long campaign encourages individuals to adopt a vegan diet through the VegPledge, promoting the environmental and health benefits of reducing animal product consumption. Currently, over 70000 people have taken the VegPledge.
“By eating vegan […] you are taking action to protect the animals, the planet, and your own health”
This initiative is supported by several local governments across the United States, including Washington, DC, and Hawaii, which have issued proclamations recognizing the connection between animal agriculture and climate change. New support has also emerged from cities like Annapolis, MD; Worcester, MA; and Pompano Beach, FL.
Director of Outreach and Engagement at Animal Outlook, Jenny Canham, states, “By eating vegan, even if you start for just one week, you are taking action to protect the animals, the planet, and your own health.” The campaign claims significant environmental savings for those who participate, citing that a single day of eating vegan can save an animal life, 1,100 gallons of water, and 30 square feet of forest.
Celebrity support boosts campaign visibility
Celebrity endorsements have bolstered the campaign’s visibility. Actress and author Alicia Silverstone, recording artist Mya, and comedian Tig Notaro, who currently stars in the Netflix special “Hello Again,” are among this year’s supporters.
Notaro shared her personal motivation for adopting a vegan diet, saying, “The way animals in the food system suffer is absolutely no laughing matter. I’m vegan because I choose to vote against this cruelty every time I eat. I encourage anyone looking to do something positive to take Animal Outlook’s VegPledge.”
“The way animals in the food system suffer is absolutely no laughing matter“
Notable industry figures like Jennifer Stojkovic, founder of the Vegan Women Summit; Jamie Logan, a YouTuber and podcast host; and Zara Hovelsas, a functional nutritionist and co-founder of The Vegains Co. Meal Plan, are also promoting this year’s VegWeek.
Participants in VegWeek can expect incentives such as the chance to win prizes from vegan companies like Dr. Bronner’s and Nuria Beauty, exclusive discounts on vegan products, and access to free recipes and other resources to enhance their experience during the week. Those who are already vegan are invited to participate and join the Animal Outlook Alliance or make the pledge to grow veganism by recruiting others to sign up.
