The fragility of our current food system has been Exposed, as well as how the government is propping up damaging and violent animal-based farming and fishing. Animal agriculture’s reliance on government bailouts is creating an unsustainable supply chain. If these were not in place, we would see the end of animal agriculture. But what could our future look like? And how can we reach that stage?

We are at a really exciting point in time where we could create unprecedented change within our food system and farming industries. The current farm subsidy system is creating a false hope for both farmer and consumer, and this is simply not sustainable. With so much taxpayer money being pumped into an industry that could not survive without it, we are propping up violence and abuse.

Our current subsidy system and legislation is outdated and favours animal-based farmers. Those who are wanting to create positive change and swap to plant-based farming are being left behind and disadvantaged. We must demand that the UK government overturns the current subsidy system and create a modern, eco-conscious and sustainable one. The implementation of plant-based initiatives are vital to support farmers moving forward. We must help current arable farms become more efficient and environmentally-friendly, as well as helping animal farming transition to plant-based farming.

Initiatives that currently exist – such as the Vegan Society’s ‘Grow Green’ campaign, the European-wide ‘REARM’D’ programme and Mercy for Animals’ ‘Transfarmation’ initiative in the US – are leading the way in helping farmers shape a better future for all. We are calling on the UK government to implement nationwide initiatives for all farmers that are effective, accessible and sustainable. Send our letter today!

What would this look like?

There are farmers who have already taken the leap towards creating a better future! From sending animals to sanctuaries instead of slaughter, to converting their own land to sanctuaries, to becoming veganic plant-based farmers, their stories are truly inspirational and provide a glimpse into what our future could look like.

Take a look at the two examples below:

1. Sivalingam Vasanthakumar, Ex-Sheep Farmer, UK

Sivalingam Vasanthakumar was raised on a Sri Lankan dairy farm and studied agriculture in both India and the UK. He became a sheep farmer and in 2019 gave his lambs and remaining sheep to Goodheart Animal Sanctuary in Worcestershire – read more here. Kumar has since created a vegan food business. He believes that farmers need support to enable them to transition to plant-based farming, and the entirety of food production and land management needs reform. This will create a sustainable plant-based future, and a countryside that benefits both human and non-human animals.

2. Hof Narr, Animal Sanctuary and Veganic Farm, Switzerland

Sarah Heiligtag studied philosophy and it was her studies that made her question the rights of both human and non-human animals. Her husband, George, was studying environmental science at the same time and, with their newfound knowledge, they wanted to create a safe and sustainable place for animals. Buying an old farm, they regenerated the land with plant-based agriculture, as well as created a sanctuary for animals who needed a lifelong home. They receive around 10,000 visitors each year, where they show people that animals are all individuals with unique personalities. They also employ Valentina Rosselto – featured in the video – who works on the farm, helping to take care of the animals and teaching ethics. Another major focus of theirs is supporting farmers in a transition to plant-based farming to create a sustainable future for all.

A better future IS possible and we must come together collaboratively to help make this positive change.

As always,

For the animals.

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