In newly released findings from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the number of farmers markets continues to grow at a significant pace, increasing by 16% in the past year alone. Consumer focus on personal health and green issues are the likely drivers behind this growth, as study after study shows continued interest in these topics.

Earlier this month, Compassion in World Farming recognized 30 companies with Good Farm Animal Welfare Awards for showing compassion for farmed animals and making strides toward higher welfare products. Various organizations were given awards from three categories, including the Good Egg Award, the Good Chicken Award, and the Supermarket Award.

The modern history of Meatless Monday as a public health campaign has taken the meat-reducing agenda to new heights. Now an international health movement to encourage consumers to go one meat-free day per week for better health and a better environment, Meatless Monday is making in-roads onto dining tables everywhere… in schools, restaurants, and in homes.

Selling vegetarian in today’s market doesn’t mean just selling to vegetarians, it simply means selling vegetarian. Case in point — the number of vegetarians has remained relatively stable in recent years, but the number of meat reducing consumers has increased steadily. Therefore, in order for vegetarian businesses to grow, they must appeal to the larger group of meat reducing consumers who are moving closer toward a vegetarian diet with every meal.

Earth Day 2010 marks the 40th anniversary of the event that today is recognized across 175 countries around the world and by over 500 million people. Originally the idea of Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1969, the initial goal was to educate children and the environment. Now held on April 22nd, after the first recognized Earth Day in 1970, this day represents a time when many people think about living in a healthier and more sustainable way.