Based on the given excerpt, the most logical answer would be C. "To respond to the counterclaim that veganism is bad for the environment."
The information cited clearly shows that the writer is against the consumption of meat. Choices A and D are more like personal attacks on those of the opposing side of the issue, which is inappropriate during an argumentative essay. Choice B is also invalid since the statistics provided don't mention anything related to an individual's personal health.
He is appealing to the audience's emotions by using language with strong connotations such as “revolting barbarity” and “shameless hypocrisy” to condemn the United States and shame his audience.
