TOP NEWS THIS WEEK
World Day for the End of Fishing Calls for Abolition of Aquatic Animal Exploitation: March 30 marks the World Day for the End of Fishing (WoDEF), an international event raising awareness about the plight of fishes, crustaceans, and cephalopods exploited by the fishing industry. Launched in 2017, WoDEF advocates for the complete abolition of commercial fishing and aquaculture, which kill trillions of sentient aquatic animals each year through horrific methods like suffocation, crushing, and live evisceration.
WoDEF highlights that unlike land animals, aquatic animals are largely overlooked victims of speciesism due to their different physiology and lack of easily recognized expressions of suffering. However, scientific evidence shows they are capable of experiencing pain and distress. WoDEF calls for recognizing the fundamental rights of all sentient beings, including aquatic animals, to life, freedom, and bodily autonomy. See the WoDEF campaigns from 2024.
Alternative Proteins Poised to Disrupt NZ’s Food Sectors: A new study from the University of Canterbury suggests strong growth in alternative proteins in New Zealand over the next few decades. Plant-based meat and precision fermentation products are projected to increasingly displace animal-based foods. This has prompted the government to prepare for industry changes, including plans to help farmers transition away from the animal agriculture industry. Read the full article on The Conversation.
The Many Benefits of Mushrooms: Mushrooms are gaining popularity not just for their delicious taste but also for their numerous health benefits. Packed with nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and fiber, mushrooms have been linked to improved immune function, better cognitive health, and reduced cancer risk. What’s more, mushrooms are one of the most sustainably produced foods. With over 10,000 varieties, there’s a mushroom for every taste and culinary application. From cremini and shiitake to lion’s mane and royal trumpet, explore the world of mushrooms and discover 10 vegan recipes that showcase their incredible flavors and textures. Discover the many types of mushrooms and try out the 10 vegan mushroom recipes included in the article on VegNews.
SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT
Belgium Moves to Enshrine Animal Rights in Constitution
In a groundbreaking development, Belgium is set to become a pioneer by including animal rights in its constitution. The amendment, which has already passed key legislative hurdles, will require the government to “protect and care for animals as sentient beings” in exercising its powers. The move reflects growing societal demand to extend fundamental rights to nonhuman animals capable of experiencing suffering.
Constitutional amendments like this are vital steps toward institutionalizing ethical considerations for animals within the legal framework. As public consciousness evolves, formal recognition of animal sentience could catalyze further policy reforms challenging the deeply entrenched paradigm of animal exploitation. Read more on The Animal Reader.
QUICK BITES
Gochujang Sheet Pan Bowl: This flavor-packed Korean-inspired dish combines roasted veggies, tofu and chickpeas tossed in a tangy gochujang marinade. Serve over rice or greens for a satisfying plant-based meal. Get the easy one-pan recipe on Vegan Richa.
Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes: Decadently fudgy, these one-bowl vegan chocolate cupcakes come together effortlessly with just a few basic ingredients. The perfect sweet treat for any occasion! Find the simple recipe on One Green Planet.
DID YOU KNOW?
The world’s oldest known animal rights organization, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), was founded in England in 1824. This groundbreaking organization paved the way for the modern animal rights movement and continues to advocate for the welfare of animals to this day.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) was established by a group of activists who were appalled by the widespread mistreatment of animals in 19th-century England. The organization’s initial focus was on protecting horses, which were often overworked, beaten, and neglected in the bustling streets of London. As the SPCA gained support and influence, it expanded its mission to encompass the welfare of all animals, including those used in agriculture, scientific research, and entertainment.
Throughout its nearly 200-year history, the SPCA has been instrumental in pushing for landmark animal protection legislation, such as the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835 and the Protection of Animals Act of 1911. These laws laid the foundation for modern animal welfare regulations and helped to shift public attitudes towards the treatment of animals. Today, the SPCA operates through a network of independent organizations across the globe, each working to rescue, shelter, and advocate for animals in need.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
As the evidence mounts for the sentience of fishes and other aquatic animals, do you think it’s time for society to extend the same moral consideration and legal protections to these beings as we do to land animals? How can we raise awareness about the hidden suffering in the fishing industry and promote plant-based alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Stay informed and keep advocating for a more vegan world. See you next week with more updates!
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