Veganism on the Rise Worldwide
Climate change, animal rights, and health are the three pillars on which the vertiginous rise of veganism is based. For many, vegan diets are no longer sustainable, since 780 million people in the world do not have access to water (and a third of it goes to animals), and the meat industry is responsible for around 58% of global food emissions. Consumers are taking veganism seriously and this means they are looking to change more than just their diet. From beauty products to home construction materials, vegan products and values are taking over many aspects of life.
Veganism Rules the Fashion World
The sustainable fashion industry is predicted to be worth around $15 billion in 2031, with a CAGR of 9.1%. Veganism is seen as an important part of environmental responsibility and top brands such as Stella McCartney, Jill Milan, and Matt and Nat are all embracing vegan principles in their designs. Matt and Nat, for instance, make beautiful items in vegan leather (made from everything from recycled nylon to rubber). Nanushka makes beautiful cruelty free bags, shoes, and other accessories, and Umasan aims to create “a brave new world combining high end taste with the latest innovation regarding the longevity of planet earth and its inhabitants.”
Vegan Construction Principles
Construction is arguably ‘the final frontier’ for vegans to conquer, since 100% vegan built homes are still elusive. Many of the basic materials used in construction deprive animals of their natural habitats when they are taken. Take limestone, which is used to make concrete. This material is often harvested from the caves where bats make their homes. Timber and wood (especially reclaimed varieties) meanwhile, are treated with products form the animal industry. Even bricks often contain animal blood or fat for preservation purposes. There is a ray of light on the horizon, though – one UK company is currently developing a range of construction products made from the humble mushroom. The product they make is called mycelium and it is already being used in insulation panels. So on a hopeful note, if things continue to progress at this pace, constructing a completely vegan home will no longer be just a dream.
Embracing Vegan Beauty
Most savvy players in the beauty industry are proudly proclaiming their commitment to veganism. Just a few companies creating high-quality, cutting-edge products that are beautifully packaged include KVD Vegan Beauty, E.L.F. Cosmetics, and Hourglass Cosmetics. These brands do not test their products on animals and do not use any animal byproducts in their beauty lines. This is in stark contrast to most brands, which use ingredients such as carmine, lanolin, and beeswax for aspects such as color, texture, and preservation.
Veganism is more than a hot food trend. It is part of the sustainability movement and it is currently taking over everything from car interiors to high fashion. The plant-based lifestyle is also ruling companies selling the everyday items we use for hygiene and beauty – including skincare products and makeup.
