Just like veganism is the more sustainable option when it comes to looking after our planet, plant-based living is another, more sustainable way of feeding a family. A plant-based diet requires only one third of the land needed to support a meat and dairy diet. With rising global food and water insecurity due to a myriad of environmental and socio-economic problems, there's never been a better time to adopt a more sustainable way of living.
Avoiding animal products is not just one of the simplest ways an individual can reduce the strain on food as well as other resources, it's the easiest way to take a stand against inefficient food systems, which disproportionately affect the poorest people all over the world.
The suffering caused by the dairy and egg industry is possibly less well-publicised than the plight of factory-farmed animals. The production of dairy products necessitates the death of countless male calves that are of no use to the dairy farmer, as well as the premature death of cows slaughtered when their milk production decreases. Similarly, in the egg industry, even 'ethical' or 'free range' eggs involve the killing of 'unnecessary' male chicks when just a day old!
A vegan is a person who has made the decision to cut out all animal products from their diet in order to avoid the abuse and exploitation suffered by animals. Veganism goes far beyond just being a diet, and you'll find out more as you read on. Just bear in mind that this lifestyle is not only good for you, but it's also good for the planet and animals.
It is not always possible to choose your next Erasmus+ destination from just anywhere on a map because, depending on your home university, you will have a set group of destination universities available from which you can place some countries/cities in order of preference on your application. Obviously, it won't be the same experience if you choose to go to a big city in northern Europe or to a smaller city in the depths of the Balkan Peninsula, but nothing is impossible!
If you are lucky enough to be able to choose from destinations, our recommendation is that within your options, choose a city that is as vegan-friendly as possible, as it will make your life much easier during your Erasmus+ mobility. If on the other hand, you can't choose a vegan-friendly city, or you have already chosen your Erasmus+ destination, don't worry! As we have already said, things are continually changing, so you can adapt, and you’ll find there are ways to still be vegan-friendly wherever you are.
For the time being, we have a list for you here of the most vegan-friendly cities to carry out your Erasmus+ mobility in:
- London
- Berlin
- Warsaw
- Prague
- Madrid
However, a vegan lifestyle is also becoming more popular in other European cities like Barcelona, Budapest, Amsterdam, Lisbon and Milan. This list is based on information gathered by HappyCow, (an online support service for vegans and vegetarians) which ranks the best cities in terms of vegan options, but this doesn't mean that there are a lot less options in other cities, not at all.
Beyond its cultural and artistic attractions, Florence satisfies all different tastes, no matter how diverse. You can easily find a good pizzeria there, or an excellent trattoria. Additionally, it has lots of new cuisines to offer, just as much as Tuscany is proud of its agricultural traditions, it has been growing culturally for the last decade, in the centre and on the outskirts, restaurants, bakeries and cafes offer vegan choices. Many are so tasty that you will definitely be surprised! Do some research, about the city that has caught your eye and we are sure that you will find alternative options.
Comments: