dead in the water
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Over 2,000 CAFOs (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations) litter southeastern North Carolina. The animal waste from these farms is improperly managed and runs into the Cape Fear River, creating a threat to water quality and public health. These farms are hidden in rural counties where residents have little political voice or economic clout and are exposed to the raw animal waste.
Dead in the Water exposes the stories, science, and solutions behind these unsustainable, industrial farms.
solutions
What can you do to help solve this problem? It's all about taking demand away from this archaic, harmful industry and placing demand on a more sustainable and fair product.
vote with your dollars
go vegan or vegetarian
support new legislation
There are many avenues you can take to help alleviate the pressure that this industry places on our planet and our public health. You can also seek out and support environmental groups and/or politicians who are fighting for change in legislation. If you are in the North Carolina area, check out Cape Fear River Watch.They are a grassroots environmental organization that protects the water and air quality of the Cape Fear River through education, advocacy, and action.
This seems like a drastic change for some, and it is. Food is our culture, our memories, our social experiences. Asking someone to give up part of all that is daunting. Start small: even if it's just a Meatless Monday, or one vegetarian meal per week, incremental change it still change. Making a change like this, though, could be helpful for your planet, your neighbors, and your health! Read more about test driving a whole foods, plant-based diet from Dr. Neal Barnard here.
Farmers markets can be intimidating at first. The prices may be higher than you are used to. However, when you factor in true labor costs to make an animal product or produce, farmers market prices are more closely aligned with what we should be paying when our farmers don't cut corners. Even if you don't buy anything at first, check out your local farmers market, speak to the farmers and consumers, learn what you can, and meet new people. Check out this farmers market directory if you're not sure where to start.
