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
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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