The increasing trend for soya milk

The idea of being a vegan has always baffled me. Vegetarianism I completely understand, especially for environmental reasons, but what difference are you making by not eating cheese and drinking cow’s milk? Especially when your alternative is soya milk.

Soy beans are not grown in the UK and the demand for soy products in the last decade has put increasing pressure on Amazonion rainforests and contributes to mass deforestation. Brazil accounts for 27% of soy bean production. This is followed by the US which produces 35% and since 2010 93% of the US’s soy production has come from genetically modified crops. Since February this year the UK has allowed the import of GM feed for livestock, the import of GM products can’t be far behind.

Putting aside my environmental beliefs I can be realistic enough to see the idea for the need for GM products especially with widespread drought in East Africa, but I do not see the need for increasing demand on a product thats production is not environmentally friendly. And also broaching the subject of GMO’s is a whole other matter that I need to do more research on, so stay tuned.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/feb/06/genetically-modified-crops-uk

All I can offer for now is how I feel when I have to make a soya milk latte on a Sunday morning for yet another fad follower, if I could out-rightly insult customers I would tell them this is not a fad to follow, if you can’t handle dairy after a big night out, might I suggest an espresso.

I welcome myself to the world of blogging

Sadly as much as I would like to take credit for the title of this blog, I can't, but as a budding journalist titles aren't my area. However, it sums up how I feel about the way the Earth is being treated by...us.

I am motivated by change, the good kind of change that involves a change of attitude towards our planet and the attitude that we can all make a bit of difference. After all the planet is our responsibility and our world leaders aren't exactly doing their utmost best to make enough change, but there is no point sitting back and waiting for a solution from above, there isn't enough time!

With my passion for the environment, my skills as a journalist, a bit of curiosity and gentle persuasion (from the only person who can persuade me to do anything), I can make this blog a rather interesting read and possibly an eye opener. Even if only I read it and use it as an excuse to research and rant.