The vast majority of animals raised for meat, eggs and milk in the world today are raised in intensive indoor farming systems called "factory farms". In today's factory farms, animals are crammed by the thousands into filthy windowless sheds, wire cages and other confinement systems. These animals will never raise their families, root in the soil, build nests, or do anything that is natural to them. They won't even feel the sun on their backs or breathe fresh air until the day they are loaded onto trucks bound for slaughter.
Factory farms deny animals many of their basic behavioural and physical needs. Such artificial conditions cause animals to suffer from boredom, frustration, and stress. Some animals are also subjected to cruel practices such as force feeding or deprived of nourishment to make their meat taste a certain way.
Aside from the animal welfare concerns, the modern factory farming industry also causes environmental destruction and resource depletion. Modern animal farming is rapidly polluting and depleting our natural resources upon which all life depends. Factory farms pollute the neighbourhood with waste run-off into waterways and produce noxious gas emissions, contributing to climate change. Farm animals account for 10% of all greenhouse gases, including around 25% of emissions of methane.
If you want to learn how to you can help these poor animals,
come on down to the Infobus today, 9 November, from 1730h to 1930h and listen to ACRES (Animal Concerns Research and Education Society). Their session will discuss the cruelty behind the modern farming industry and how reducing our consumption of meat or going vegetarian can make the world a better place for animals and people.
