Ecosam, 36

I'm a born-and-raised vegetarian although I remain vegetarian out of preference but also due to ethical and environmental reasons. I gave up dairy about two and a half years ago although I still eat eggs and honey; I may still go vegan, need to have a think about it... Does anyone have an opinion regarding veganism versus self sufficiency? I'm a postgrad student doing an architectural MSc in Advanced Environmental and Energy Studies at the Centre for Alternative Technology (I'm not an architect though) which I've nearly finished and enjoyed thoroughly. I try to live my life as environmentally friendly as possible and aspire to a self-sufficientish, sustainable, low-impact, fulfilling and enjoyable lifestyle preferably in the company of like-minded people. I'd love to change the world for the better but how the hell I go about doing so is beyond me... I guess I'll just have to flail around madly and make a scene. Hopefully someone will pay attention. As you'd expect, my interests stray from the 'typical' and extend to Permaculture, conservation, smallholding, woodland management, agroforestry, making booze, baking bread, freeganism, learning new skills, and having a decent pint and chat down t'pub (ok, maybe that last one isn't so atypical). If anything I've prattled on about has intrigued or otherwise interested you, feel free to get in touch. T'would be good to have a chat with some people on approximately the same wavelength.