The Plant Based Treaty initiative, endorsed by 21 cities worldwide, has been commended in a citation by New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
In his citation, Adams said: “When we change our dinners, we change our destinies, and in doing so, we save lives. We can craft a future fuelled by clean, healthy, and tasty energy that allows us to reach new heights and achieve the impossible. As the United Nations hosts its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit, Plant Based Treaty distributes delectable plant-based food to any passing individuals who live, work or visit the five boroughs in an effort to welcome more people into the movement. On this occasion, I am pleased to commend Plant Based Treaty for its efforts to forge a healthful, equitable and sustainable New York City.”
As world leaders carry out their review of the state of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and respond to the impact of multiple and interlocking crises facing the world, Ellen Dent and Mariana Guagnini will be providing political guidance and urging delegates to consider plant-based diets and the role of a food system transformation on a number of SDGs, including good health and wellbeing, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Dent, attending the UN SDG Action Weekend from September 16 to 21 as part of the Animal People Forum delegation, said: “We cannot meet our sustainability goals without shifting to a plant-based food system. Animal agriculture is the leading cause of methane, land use change, deforestation in the Amazon and species extinction. A plant-based food system would allow us to rewild more than 75% of farmland to restore biodiversity and absorb carbon.
“Greenhouse gas emissions from the food system alone will breach the 1.5C target of the Paris Agreement; cities and institutions can play a key role in cutting emissions and improving the health of communities by switching to plant-based menus in city halls, schools, universities, care homes, prisons and at public events.”
Under Adams, New York City has expanded lifestyle medicine services at NYC Health + Hospital and initiated programs such as Plant Powered Fridays, which provides plant-based lunch options to children in School. Mayor Eric Adams describes Plant Based Treaty as an “outspoken ally in this effort,” and commended the commitment to reevaluating the food system and offering solutions.
Adams said: “Plant Based Treaty encourages individuals, businesses, and organisations to adopt veganism or plant-based philosophies to actualise a brighter future, in conjunction with other demands, such as ending subsidies for the meat and dairy industries. By following a vegan or plant-based diet, people can benefit from the associated environmental advantages, such as reduced carbon footprint and less deforestation. This lifestyle change also reduces instances of animal mistreatment and promotes healthier living, including a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes. It is movements such as this that have the potential to alter our food system, and in the process, transform our communal mindset.”
Jim Cornall is editor of Future Food Today and publisher at Ayr Coastal Media. He is an award-winning writer, editor, photographer, broadcaster, designer and author. Contact Jim here.
