it's mostly a collective action problem. while I certainly can (and do) choose to limit my meat consumption, I need a car to get to work. there are no buses that go from my home to the office, and there are very few jobs within walking/biking distance of my home that match my skillset. I do commute in a small, fuel-efficient hatchback, but this exposes me to increased risk of death or serious injury in an accident with the much heavier vehicles that other drivers typically choose in my area. the increased driving enjoyment of the lighter vehicle makes it worth the risk for me, but I can't really fault people who choose the safer (ie heavier and less efficient) vehicles for themselves and their families.