The intellectual arguments for vegetarianism are indeed compelling to me. However, the Omnivore’s Dilemma , along with Animal, Vegetable, Miracle” convinced me that an all-vegetarian diet, especially in the Canadian climate, may not be the way to go if we’re going to go sustainable and local.

For better or for worse, animal protein is one of the most efficient natural sources. The amount of energy put into a grass-feeding animal is so minimal compared to the calories you can get out.

Not only that, but having animals act as part of the natural ecosystem, rather than as some sort of confined livestock can actually be beneficial to farming (ie chickens eating bugs, beef manure, goats cutting grass). Animals take a lot of care and time, but it may be worth it.

As far as ethical issues go, I have plenty of opinions, but no concrete answers. Just like everyone else.

Though, it is very true that we must limit our meat consumption to a sustainable level (which is probably the same as humane, free range natural care). We eat far too much, when just a little meat will go a long way.