I have refrained from making any comment on the announcement that former Vice President Al Gore and Tipper Gore are separating. This seems to me to be a sad event and I wish them both well in their personal lives. But the folks at PETA do have some helpful advice for Al (though not, it seems, for Tipper). They have shared with me a copy of their letter to the former vice president, and I will share it with you.
Dear Mr. Gore,
I am writing on behalf of PETA and our more than 2 million members worldwide to offer some heartfelt advice following your separation from Tipper, which was announced during the very same week that the United Nations released a new report on the environment.
You are already aware of the environmental damage caused by animal agriculture, and you recently stated that you are reducing your meat consumption. This is a small but important step. Now that you’re single again and presumably considering dating, you may also be looking for a way to slim down. May we recommend kicking the meat and milk habit entirely and going vegan, which is not only one of the best ways to fight climate change but is also one of the best ways to shed unwanted pounds?
Naturally high in fiber, low in fat, and free of cholesterol, a plant-based diet is virtually guaranteed to whittle away your waistline. Researchers have found that, on average, vegans are 10 to 20 pounds lighter than meat-eaters. And vegans are in better overall health as well. According to the American Dietetic Association, going meat-free lowers your risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Meaty diets such as Atkins, which we know you tried when you were campaigning, have been linked to unappealing side effects such as bad breath and constipation. The best way to stay fit and energetic and to make sure that you do not clog the arteries leading to any of your vital organs with cholesterol is to go vegan.
We know that you find it hard to kick the meat habit, and we know that you care about the Earth, so please remind yourself of the fact that dropping meat, eggs, and dairy products from your diet is also good for the planet. The report on climate change that the United Nations released last week concluded, “A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.”
Of course, this is not news to you. Live Earth, the terrific organization that you cofounded, has stated in its handbook that “refusing meat” is the “single most effective thing you can do to reduce your carbon footprint.”
If you would like, we will send you a gift basket full of delicious vegan foods to help you on the road to a healthier planet and a rekindled love life.
Very truly yours,
Ingrid E. Newkirk
President
