Howard F. Lyman, fourth-generation farmer, rancher, and beef feedlot operator turned environmental activist, changed his life in 1979 when diet and lifestyle-related illness nearly killed him. Upon his recovery, he dedicated his life to the reform of animal agriculture and spreading the message that sustainable, humane, organic practices must take the place of continued reliance on a meat-based diet, which spells disaster for both consumers and producers in the face of the world's rising population and dwindling grain resources. He is executive director of Beyond Beef, founder of Voice For A Viable Future, and president of the International Vegetarian Union.