As mentioned in various newspapers, most of the arable land in Switzerland and other European countries is used for livestock farming and its downstream industry. This ecosystem hurts our health and causes long-term damage to the climate. Industrial production and economic cycles are geared towards optimisation and higher turnover. People have gotten used to this and find it difficult to avoid it. Although various leading figures have pointed out the problems and possible alternatives for some time, motivating most people to change their lifestyle and diet seems nearly impossible. Older generations, in particular, have difficulty with this or do not want to make a change, even though this group contains many actively involved, influential players who take an experimental approach and follow the zeitgeist.
In principle, the oft-cited level of self-sufficiency could be easily attained in Switzerland by employing economical, vegan-oriented ecosystems. You would think the potential for automation, sustainability principles and flagship projects would induce a “gold-rush mood” here. This has already happened. Sufficient financial means (if used correctly) are available, and the number of players increases yearly. A long-term change such as this will take time. Health insurance premiums and the current global situation should provide an unambiguous indication of how urgently such a change is needed and should be a wake-up call. Meat lovers will still be able to enjoy a slice of meat even after a successful transition. However, the joint responsibility for adverse global developments would be rescaled. Like in other sectors, various micro- and macroeconomic systems and companies would become established.
The constant shifting of the market already requires remodelling and changes in usage within the existing infrastructure. Consumer behaviour throughout the population must and will drastically change in a few years. These days, staunch vegetarians and vegans account for nineteen percent of the population, and many others have a vegetarian lifestyle. It is true that the figures vary and are not that easy to nail down. However, what cannot be overlooked or overheard is that this trend is continually developing over time. Small businesses and mini-projects have a particular tradition in Switzerland. People want to advocate for self-sufficiency and security. Lifelong learning and active participation are prerequisites for this. There is a lot of interest in fauna and knowledge of the food sector within the population. Nevertheless, in the long-term, many society-related illnesses and our health system and its astronomical costs will cause young people, in particular, serious problems.
It is time to move in another direction, finally. More players are needed to make the appropriate strategic decisions. Seriousness and assertiveness are also required for the sustainable and healthy export of food and to avoid further damage to the climate. This would boost interested researchers, the already booming entrepreneurial scene in this area and the associated sectors, such as fashion and beauty. Our interests are in more forest land, increased protection in times of crisis, greater self-sufficiency, lower healthcare costs, and more participation and innovation. Considering socially acceptable adjustments, a societal and health-policy-related transformation could be achieved within a few years.