1. Ministry for the Environment (2000). Climate Change: New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions. Wellington: NZ Govt 2. Ministry for the Environment (2007). Projected Balance of Emissions Units during the First Commitment Period of the Kyoto Protocol. Wellington: NZ Govt 3. Ministry for the Environment (2006). Understanding Climate Change – Get a grasp of the facts. Wellington: NZ Govt MEDIA RELEASE

World Vegetarian Day Eco Challenge

Thursday September 25th

Kiwis concerned about the environment are urged to go vegetarian for World Vegetarian Day this year.

“You can change to energy efficient light bulbs or cycle instead of drive a car, but if you still choose to eat meat, you’re missing the easiest and single most effective step you can take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,’ says New Zealand Vegetarian Society spokesperson Nicky Owers.

Owers cites the government’s own figures showing that the agricultural sector is the biggest producer of greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand1, and this number is increasing every year due to the rise in dairy farming2.

“Farmed animals contribute more to global warming than all forms of transport combined,”3 says Ms Owers, “So we urge Kiwis to make a gentler eco footprint by trying vegetarianism for the day, or longer.” Vegetarian festivals will be held in the North and South Islands this weekend showcasing the diverse range of vegetarian foods, drinks, businesses and groups.

Cookery demonstrations, films, and speakers about the vegetarian lifestyle will also take place.

World Vegetarian Day is celebrated internationally on 1st October. This year will be the thirty first anniversary of the event.

ENDS

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