are vegetarians more ethical by not eating meat?

[littleendian]

Now, it was difficult to conceive of growing something else in those areas - and largely because those areas aren't really suitable for much else

I admit this is a gut feeling, but I find it very hard to believe that science couldn't find a way for using this land that is presently producing lifestock feed to produce food that is suitable for humans. It might not be straight forward, it might be harder and a bit more expensive, but I doubt its impossible.

I wasn't aware of some of the connections you've given, quite interesting, thanks