Colin Saravanamuttoo
Colin Saravanamuttoo is executive director of the World Animal Protection, a global animal welfare organization.
Despite advances in technology and intelligence, border security still relies heavily on more officers, inspections and physical infrastructure. Those investments cannot keep pace with the complexity of modern trade.
Expanding plant-based agriculture offers an opportunity to grow the economy, strengthen resilience, enhance food security and food sovereignty, and address climate change simultaneously.
By expanding plant-based production alongside smaller-scale, higher-welfare animal agriculture, Canada can strengthen farm incomes, meet consumer expectations, reduce the pressures of concentrated systems. Diversified operations are often more stable and more connected to local communities.
The National School Food Program announcement is reason to celebrate, especially if it can help the shift to more plant-based consumption. Not only are there are big environmental, economic and health benefits from this shift, but it’s a reminder that the health and well-being of humans, animals, and the planet are interconnected.
