Factory farms are large scale corporate farms created with the singular purpose of producing the most livestock at the lowest cost. As a result, they are a big problem for Canadians for many different reasons: animals are abused, local farmers are driven out of business and dangerous chemicals and hormones can be used.

Factory farms are sadly becoming a larger part of the Canadian landscape. Though the number of factory farms isn't increasing quickly, the amount of livestock kept in these facilities is continuously on the rise.

For many, the New Year arrives next week. On February 3, there will be celebrations all over the world marking Chinese New Year, and 2011 is meant to be the year of the rabbit. But I worry that this year's honoured animal will become overshadowed by the pig, or more specifically the "EnviropigTM," who you may spot in media headlines over the next 12 months. If there is one New Year's resolution I could advise for you, it's simply this: please, pay attention to this pig.

The birth of EnviropigTM