Target: Jessica Bowron, Acting Director of the National Park Service
Goal: Ensure that foodservice providers in national parks adopt sustainable and humane plant-based menu options to protect the environment and promote animal welfare.
The decision by Xanterra Travel Collection to commit to a goal of at least 50% plant-based menu entrées by the end of 2026 is a groundbreaking step, but this initiative highlights a pressing need for comprehensive changes across all foodservice providers in national parks. Millions of visitors to these cherished landscapes deserve dining options that not only cater to diverse dietary needs but also actively mitigate environmental harm caused by animal agriculture. The potential benefits of shifting toward plant-based meals are profound and far-reaching, impacting both public health and ecological sustainability.
Animal agriculture is responsible for 14.5% of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, posing a significant threat to our planet. The environmental toll of producing animal-based foods is alarming; for instance, it takes approximately 1,800 gallons of water to produce just one pound of beef, while only 300 gallons are required for one pound of tofu. By not adopting plant-based menu policies, foodservice providers in national parks risk perpetuating detrimental practices that adversely affect the environment and public health.
The time for action is now. It is vital for the National Park Service to mandate that all foodservice providers implementing menu changes prioritize sustainable options that reflect the values of ecological conservation and compassion toward animals. This commitment not only aligns with the principles of protecting our national treasures but also fosters a more inclusive and responsible dining culture within these invaluable spaces.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Acting Director Bowron,
Xanterra Travel Collection has taken a monumental step by committing to make at least 50% of its menu entrées plant-based by the end of 2026. This significant pledge is set to transform the culinary experience for the over 3 million visitors at our national parks, ensuring that everyone has access to sustainable and humane dining options. However, this initiative underscores a greater need for systemic changes across all foodservice providers operating in these treasured environments.
Currently, the unsustainable practices of animal agriculture impose severe consequences on our planet, accounting for 14.5% of all greenhouse gas emissions and requiring immense water resources. By prioritizing plant-based options, foodservice providers can drastically reduce their environmental footprint, promote public health, and support a more compassionate food system. Many visitors, including those with lactose intolerance, will greatly benefit from increased access to plant-based meals, fostering an inclusive environment for all.
We urge the National Park Service to take decisive action by implementing policies that require foodservice providers in national parks to adopt and maintain sustainable, plant-based menu offerings. Such a commitment will not only protect the land and its wildlife but also set a precedent for responsible dining practices across the country.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
