ABSTRACT

This collection takes an interdisciplinary look at how the transformation towards plant-based diets is becoming more culturally acceptable, economically accessible, technically available and politically viable. We offer strategies for achieving sustainable food systems without having to forgo succulence, sensuality and sacredness of food.
 
Shifting food systems is one of humanity’s biggest challenges and greatest opportunities. This book explores adaptable and health-promoting plant-based diets, which by their nature can support nourishing environmental, social, ethical, political, and economic outcomes. In this book, detailed descriptions are provided of what constitutes a healthy plant-based diet and active lifestyle. Readers are invited to engage with a community of practitioners delving more deeply into strategies for transitioning societies to greater succulence and sustainability. Throughout the first section of the book, environmental challenges and opportunities for reversing climate change are highlighted as our most urgent action. The focus then turns to global food systems and the intersections that are undermining human and animal health. The final section offers preventative approaches and encourages reorienting systems of law, economics and education to exemplify integrity, coordination, coherence and compassion.
 
This book will be of interest to students and academics, as well as policy professionals in all fields engaging with complex issues and systems analyses. It will be of value to those working in health services, policy development, agriculture, economic development, and social change as it provides steps to enhance well-being, pathways to increase jobs in the green economy, and practical ideas to reverse greenhouse gas emissions. It may also be a superb guide for individuals and families looking to become vibrant eaters and leaders.

part I|48 pages

Stewarding our environment

chapter 2|16 pages

Industrialized food systems

A look at food production, full-cost accounting, and consumer demand for protein in diets

chapter 3|18 pages

The solution on our plates

Why sustainable plant-based diets are needed to reverse the food-climate-health-equity crisis

chapter 4|12 pages

Beyond halos and technofixes

Considering meat alternatives and their potential for meaningful food systems change

part II|60 pages

Nourishing humans, health, and well-being

part III|47 pages

Respecting animals and our shared well-being

chapter 9|16 pages

The vegan challenge is a democracy issue

Citizenship and the living world

chapter 10|13 pages

Opportunities in food law for sustainability and succulence

Why the law has not caught up

part IV|63 pages

Living consciously and compassionately