Reasons to Re-think Encouraging Going Outside

We were always told that “getting fresh air” and spending time outside was healthy and good for us. Given recent events & environmental changes, this may not be encouraged as much or even come to an end. Air quality, climate change, pandemics, overpopulation, crime, and rising costs are deterring us from enjoying the outdoors. Although there are many problems, there are also many solutions if we want to have a healthy and safe environment. It might be time to rethink going outside due to these challenges. Some major solutions may come as a surprise to you such as veganism.

The Global Air Quality Crisis

Many of us have firsthand experience, know someone who has, or have read about significant, often worsening, changes in air quality, prompting many to rethink going outside. Air pollution comes from natural (but unfortunate causes) such as increased wildfires, volcano eruptions, and even dust/pollen. Unnatural causes of air pollution are fuel emissions, burning coal/oil/wood, manufacturing, and chemicals like paints or cleaning solutions. “Almost all of the global population (99%) are exposed to air pollution levels that put them at increased risk for diseases including heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, and pneumonia,” says the World Health Organization (WHO). Having clean air is detrimental to the health of not only us but other animals and the planet in general, deciding to rethink going outside a matter of serious health concern.

Is Climate Change Making My Allergies Unbearable?

As someone who has experienced pollen allergies since a young age, I, along with many others, have noticed a disturbing trend: the severity of these allergies has been steadily increasing over the years, making me rethink going outside altogether. This past year (2023) was particularly brutal, with symptoms reaching an unprecedented level of intensity. While pollen counts naturally fluctuate from year to year, the evidence strongly suggests that climate change is a significant driver of this worsening trend, further contributing to the reasons to rethink going outside.

Animal agriculture, with its substantial contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, plays a leading role in fueling climate change. The warming temperatures and altered weather patterns associated with climate change create a perfect storm for allergy sufferers. Warmer temperatures can lead to earlier and longer pollen seasons, with plants releasing pollen for extended periods. Increased carbon dioxide levels can also boost pollen production in some plants, further exacerbating the problem.

Dr. Kristine Vanijcharoenkarn, an assistant professor at Emory University School of Medicine specializing in allergies and immunology, echoes these concerns. In a recent Time article, she states: “While pollen counts vary from year to year, recent trends suggest allergy seasons are, in general, getting longer and worse.” This scientific observation aligns perfectly with my own distressing experience and the growing body of evidence linking climate change to the intensification of allergies.

Why Climate Change Is a Significant Factor Contributing to the Worsening of Seasonal Allergies:

• Longer and More Intense Pollen Seasons:
  • Warmer temperatures lead to earlier and longer growing seasons for plants, resulting in extended pollen release periods.
  • Increased carbon dioxide levels can boost pollen production in some plants.
• Increased Pollen Concentrations:
  • Higher temperatures can increase the amount of pollen released by plants.
  • Changes in precipitation patterns can also impact pollen dispersal.
• Increased Allergenicity of Pollen:
  • Some studies suggest that higher carbon dioxide levels can make pollen more potent, leading to stronger allergic reactions.

While efforts are underway to reduce air pollution and mitigate climate change, many argue that these efforts are insufficient, forcing many to rethink going outside. To cope with poor air quality, I wore a mask, used an inhaler, took antihistamines, and purchased an air purifier. Another method I utilize is my diet, which you can read more about in our blog: Foods That Alleviate or Aggravate Allergies. Unfortunately, I still struggled to do my normal routine, such as biking to work or taking my dog on long walks. I limited outdoor time due to health risks and proactively managed them, a decision driven by the need to rethink going outside in the face of increasing environmental challenges.

Environmental Impacts of Animal Agriculture

It’s crucial to remember that air and water quality are interconnected. Water pollution, driven by sources like animal agriculture, can degrade air quality through processes like evaporation and transpiration. Animal agriculture generates significant waste, polluting water, and air. Contaminated water harms human, animal, and environmental health through activities like swimming and consuming contaminated food or water. As contaminated water evaporates, some pollutants can become airborne. For example, chemicals like pesticides or industrial waste can vaporize and enter the atmosphere.

These environmental issues have far-reaching consequences, impacting human health, wildlife, and the entire planet.

Increased Homebody Tendencies After the Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were instructed to stay home and limit outings to essentials. When possible, only one household member was encouraged to go out for essentials. Other rules were social distancing, wearing masks, limited or forbidden social gatherings, more sanitation practices etc. Despite the current calm since vaccinations, the pandemic posed a significant risk, leading to many deaths among vulnerable populations. Many of us are still on high alert and are not comfortable with taking this risk when going out. This is especially true in busy cities or places where germs are easily spread. CBC reports: The Research for Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence surveyed 1,000 homeowners and found that 64% have a “greater desire” to stay home now than before the pandemic.

Here’s How Veganism Can Potentially Play a Role in Mitigating Future Pandemics

• Reduced Risk of Zoonotic Diseases:
  • Animal Agriculture and Zoonotic Diseases: Many pandemics originate from animals (zoonotic diseases). Factory farming practices, which often involve close contact between humans and animals in unsanitary conditions, increase the risk of disease transmission.  
  • Veganism and Animal Agriculture: By eliminating animal agriculture, we significantly reduce the risk of these zoonotic disease outbreaks.
• Improved Human Health:
  • Stronger Immune Systems: A well-balanced vegan diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can support a robust immune system. A stronger immune system can better fight off infections and potentially reduce the severity of illness during a pandemic.  
  • Reduced Chronic Diseases: Plant-based diets are linked to lower rates of chronic diseases like obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions can increase the risk of severe complications from infectious diseases.  
• Environmental Sustainability:
  • Reduced Deforestation: Animal agriculture is a major driver of deforestation, leading to habitat destruction and increased human-wildlife interaction. This increases the risk of zoonotic disease spillover.  
  • Climate Change Mitigation: Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbate climate change. Climate change can disrupt ecosystems and increase the likelihood of pandemics.  

Overpopulation

The world’s population is increasing every year, and with that comes an increase in a variety of risks such as the rapid spread of diseases, competition for resources, and an increase in crime. We have the option of an increase in assurance of physical safety by simply staying home and taking advantage of technologies with stay-at-home entertainment or the luxury of requesting someone else to go outside and deliver your groceries etc. through apps such as Uber Eats or DoorDash. Overpopulation also causes difficulties & risks for those who suffer from mental health-related issues such as social anxiety. Dense populations can create challenges for individuals with mental health conditions. Some people may not understand or respect how these conditions manifest, potentially leading to judgment and misunderstanding.

The Impact of Human Activity and Climate Change on Outdoor Engagement

The loss of natural resources, driven by factors like population growth and the demands of animal agriculture, significantly diminishes our motivation to spend time outdoors, prompting many to rethink going outside. Clearing forests for housing, farmland, and animal feed diminishes natural spaces, limiting human connection with nature. This erosion of natural environments not only reduces access to green spaces but also diminishes their appeal, making it less enticing to venture outdoors. Climate change and accidents actively destroy natural resources. A lack of natural spaces can easily discourage spending time outdoors. Unfortunately, this is an ongoing problem we face due to our current circumstances, further reinforcing the need to rethink going outside in a world where natural spaces are dwindling.

How Veganism Can Potentially Help Address the Issue of Overpopulation

• Increased Food Production Efficiency:
  • Land Use: Animal agriculture requires vast amounts of land for grazing and growing feed crops. Shifting to a plant-based food system would free up significant land for other uses, including growing more food for humans.  
  • Resource Efficiency: Producing plant-based foods generally requires fewer resources (water, land, energy) compared to animal agriculture. This increased efficiency could potentially support a larger human population.  
• Reduced Environmental Impact:
  • Climate Change Mitigation: Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. Reducing our reliance on animal products can help mitigate these environmental impacts and create a more sustainable planet for a larger population.  

Overpopulation and the Rise of Crime

When there are many people, there becomes a competitiveness for resources such as money and food. There is also an increase in the amount of targets for criminals, leading many to rethink going outside. Individuals may reduce their exposure to potential crime by minimizing time spent in public spaces. However, online social media platforms, while seemingly private, also present public exposure. When online, you have the option to protect yourself and your identity more if you wish by not revealing your appearance, name, or age, or by using a VPN. Online environments allow for immediate departure from potentially dangerous situations, unlike physical locations where individuals might be trapped by others or circumstances. Overpopulation in many regions strains resources, leading to widespread poverty. This poverty, in turn, fuels a rise in crime, including burglaries, further contributing to the reasons to rethink going outside.

The connection between veganism and reduced crime is a complex and debated topic. Here are some potential indirect links:

• Improved Health:
  • A well-balanced vegan diet can contribute to better physical and mental health.  
  • Reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.  
  • Better mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety and depression.  
  • These health benefits could potentially lead to decreased involvement in crime.
• Reduced Aggression:
  • Some argue that a diet high in processed meats and saturated fats may contribute to increased aggression.
  • A plant-based diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, could potentially have a calming effect.  
• Social and Environmental Justice:
  • Veganism promotes a compassionate and ethical worldview that may extend beyond animal welfare.  
  • This could foster a greater sense of empathy and social responsibility, potentially reducing violent crime.
  • Addressing environmental issues like climate change can foster social stability and reduce crime.

Why Going Outside Is Becoming a Luxury

Living costs have gone up in many areas, such as my own, which resulted in me not being able to afford to go out as much. Of course, there are options to do things for free such as going for a walk or going to the beach/park, etc. Somehow, even when I try to do free things, I will likely end up spending money, especially if I am far from home. I may need to use the restroom, but maybe the only one is for customers only. I may also get hungry but didn’t bring any/or enough food with me. If you live far from preferred outdoor destinations, transportation costs will increase. Online options for shopping, socializing, and work have grown in popularity due to benefits like cost savings, time efficiency, and increased safety.

Studies suggest that vegan diets can be more cost-effective than diets that include meat and dairy. Here’s how:

• Reduced Grocery Costs:
  • Meat and Dairy are Expensive: Meat and dairy products, especially higher-quality options, can be significantly more expensive than plant-based alternatives.
  • Focus on Whole Foods: Vegan diets often emphasize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes, which are generally more affordable than processed foods.
• Reduced Healthcare Costs:
  • Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases: Plant-based diets lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. This can lead to significant long-term savings on healthcare expenses.
• Reduced Costs Associated with Animal Products:
  • Eliminating Animal Products: Going vegan eliminates the costs associated with purchasing and consuming animal products, such as meat, dairy, eggs, and honey.

How Veganism Can Address Environmental Concerns and Improve Our World

Although going outside may be safer and healthier in some areas, I believe encouraging people to go outside more will continue to decline in the future. This trend is prompting many to rethink going outside due to growing concerns about safety, health, and the environment. This is mainly due to the environmental issues.

Going vegan is a significant and easy step towards a healthier environment. A well-planned vegan diet, emphasizing locally sourced, organic, and minimally processed foods, can have the greatest environmental benefits. Yale conducted a scientific study (found here) which states: “The analysis found that plant-based diets produce 75 percent less heat-trapping gas, generate 75 percent less water pollution, and use 75 percent less land than meat-rich diets”. Numerous documentaries can educate viewers on creating a better future through dietary change. For instance, Live Kindly has a great list of documentaries found here. It is important to note that veganism doesn’t just help with the environment. It can also help with pandemics, overpopulation, crime, expenses, and much more.

“We are living in a world where more and more people are disconnected from nature, and don’t know how to respect it and understand it.”

– Dr. Jane Goodall

Environment lover? Check out A Guide to Going Vegan For the Environment for more ways to show your love for the planet.
Brought to you by The Vegan Experience.