How cows have shaped global holiday traditions
Would holiday traditions be the same in a world without cows?
Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth traveled to more than 40 global locations in search of an answer to one simple question: Are we better off in a world without cows? They’ve interviewed dozens of scientists, academics, farmers, ranchers and experts worldwide–but what do college students in Lexington, Kentucky, think?
To find out, they hit the streets outside the William T. Young Library at the University of Kentucky (UK) to spark an important conversation about the role cows play in our daily lives and the world around us. The goal of their interviews was not for students to cement an opinion, one way or the other. It was to encourage them to think more deeply about how cows impact our world–and hopefully, to continue the conversation.
In a world that’s increasingly focused on sustainability, climate change and the future of food, cows are a hot topic of debate. From health concerns around the topic of eating red meat to the environmental impact of methane emissions, there’s a widespread perception that cows are detrimental to both the environment and our lives. But what would happen if all the cows were suddenly gone?
Through their interviews with Michelle and Brandon, it’s clear that UK students are aware that when it comes to cows and their impact on the world, it’s not black and white.
Watch Michelle and Brandon’s candid interviews with college students to see what they had to say on topics such as:
Today’s students are tomorrow’s scientists, farmers, consumers, policymakers and business leaders.
Maintaining an open dialogue about sustainability and agriculture is key to tackling the global challenges we face.
Help us broaden the conversation. Here are three things you can do right now:
This is the first of a series of videos that will be shared on World Without Cows social media. Follow @worldwithoutcows to join the discussion.
Would holiday traditions be the same in a world without cows?
Silvopasture creates healthier soil, increases biodiversity, and has the potential to increase carbon sequestration
A diet that includes plant- and animal-sourced foods provides the nutrients our brains need to thrive throughout our lives
How farmers, policymakers and scientists are working together to drastically reduce methane emissions
Can grazing cattle combat climate change? Yes, through a simple yet profound natural process called carbon sequestration
Historic disaster highlighted the importance of balancing agriculture with environmental health
As climate change intensifies and the world’s population continues to grow, the pressure on our global food production system mounts. You can play an active role in shaping a more sustainable planet for future generations. Fill out the form below to learn more about how you can partner with us.
