Probably the simplest way to combat global warming, reduce water consumption and save the rainforests (which amount to being a responsible steward of our Earth) is adopting (to some extent) a plant-based diet. The immense amount of water required to raise animals and their feed-crops is depleting a vital resource – water. Also, livestock production is responsible for 70 percent of the deforestation in the Amazon region, where rainforests are being cleared to create new pastures and crop production. The raising of cows, pigs and chicken in factories generates enormous amounts of greenhouse gases that are filling our atmosphere. We can help preserve our planet one forkful at a time by going meat-free (a big change of lifestyle!), at least one or two days a week if not more. You would be surprised as I, a former avid meat-eater, was to discover how many delicious and healthy meatless meals there are!