JUNE 5 is World Environment Day and this year's theme is Your Planet Needs You - Unite to Combat Climate Change.

Often we feel helpless to act on large-scale environmental problems such as climate change, but each individual really can be part of the solution by simply changing our eating habits. World Environment Day was established by the United Nations, which estimated in a recent report, that animal farming is responsible for more global greenhouse gas emissions than the entire worldwide transport system combined, including planes, cars and all other forms of transport. In fact, a vegan driving a 4x4 actually does less damage to the planet than a meat-eater on a bicycle. This is because animal farming is the main source of methane - one of the major and most potent greenhouse gases.

Eating plant-based foods instead of those from animal sources, can reduce the carbon impact of an individual's diet by up to 60 per cent. With one simple step, you can protect the planet, help end animal suffering and boost your health. What other diet has such overwhelmingly positive benefits? Find out how simple it really is by ordering Animal Aid's free Veggie or Vegan Guide, including recipes, shopping tips and nutritional information. www.animalaid.org.uk, or call 01732 364546.

KELLY SLADE Campaigns Officer Animal Aid