RE: "Now, a new reason to breed cattle!" September 11

With all due respect to Wes Keller ("Now, a new reason to breed cattle!" September 11), he might want to stop putting words into the mouths of others. PETA believes it is unethical to exploit animals, even if we supposedly benefit in some fashion. This is true of using animals for energy, just as it is in using them for food, clothing, entertainment, or experimentation.

Beyond the ethical considerations, there are hazards associated with reliance on animals for human needs. Data derived from animal testing, for instance, is undependable in predicting effects in humans, leading to unforeseen complications and even deaths. Our meat-centred diets raise our risk for many diseases, while factory farming pollutes our air and water. Similarly, the use of animals for energy comes with hidden costs-burning animal waste for fuel has been shown to generate more pollutants than coal.

Meat production wastes enormous amounts of energy in growing and transporting feed, housing and transporting the animals, and processing, packaging, shipping, and refrigerating the final products. Adopting a vegetarian diet is one of the best things anyone can do to save energyand you'll also help animals, the environment, and your own health. To learn more, visit www.GoVeg.com.
Jeff Mackey
Staff Writer
People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals
Norfolk, VA