Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret

Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret follows filmmaker Kip Andersen as he investigates the impact of animal agriculture on the environment. It begins with Andersen’s personal journey to reduce his carbon footprint through common environmentally-friendly practices like recycling and conserving water. However, his perspective shifts dramatically when he discovers research suggesting that animal agriculture is the leading cause of environmental destruction.

Andersen sets out to understand why major environmental organizations are not addressing this issue. He attempts to interview representatives from groups like Greenpeace, Sierra Club, and Rainforest Action Network, often encountering reluctance or outright refusal to discuss the topic. This leads him to question whether these organizations are deliberately avoiding the subject due to potential conflicts with their donors or fear of backlash from the powerful animal agriculture industry.

The documentary presents a series of startling statistics about the environmental impact of animal agriculture. It claims that livestock and their byproducts account for 51% of all worldwide greenhouse gas emissions, surpassing the entire transportation sector. Additionally, it states that animal agriculture is responsible for up to 91% of Amazon destruction and uses a third of the Earth’s fresh water.

Throughout the film, Andersen interviews various experts and activists who provide insight into the environmental consequences of animal agriculture. These include Dr. Richard Oppenlander, author of “Food Choice and Sustainability,” and Howard Lyman, a former cattle rancher turned vegan activist. The interviewees discuss topics such as deforestation, water pollution, species extinction, and ocean dead zones, all linked to animal farming practices.

The documentary also touches on the potential dangers faced by those who speak out against the animal agriculture industry. Andersen learns about activists who have been threatened or even killed for their work in exposing the environmental impacts of livestock farming, particularly in countries like Brazil.

As Andersen delves deeper into his investigation, he experiences personal challenges, including the loss of funding for the film. Despite these setbacks, he perseveres in his quest to uncover the truth and share it with the public.

Cowspiracy concludes by suggesting that adopting a vegan diet is the most effective way for individuals to reduce their environmental impact. The film argues that personal dietary choices can have a significant effect on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, and protecting ecosystems.