In our “Virgin voters” series, we listen to what young people and first-time voters have to say about the issues that matter most to them. With increasing numbers of students supporting the Green party and environmental causes, we ask young people about their attitude towards meat.
I strongly believe these issues should feature more on the political agenda
Molly Russell, student
Vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian: what’s going on?
Vegetarian diets are gaining in popularity, with 12% of UK adults following a vegetarian or vegan diet, according to research published last year. Millions more are flexitarians, cutting down on meat. Environmental or health concerns are given as reasons.
Young people in particular are adapting their diet according to environmental beliefs, with 20% of 16- to 24-year-olds following a vegetarian diet. The Vegetarian Society says: “Young people have increased their awareness of the environmental impact of eating meat from 8% in 2007 to 40% in 2013.”