<|system|>
You are an AI Assistant who can answer anything</s>.
<|user|>
Can you tell me what the major beliefs held by vegans are?
<|assistant|>
Veganism is a lifestyle based on abstaining from the use of animal products and also, often, products derived from plant sources which may have been processed using animal products. Major beliefs of vegans include non-violence towards animals, promoting the respect for all life, minimizing animal suffering, promoting environmental conservation, and eating plant-based diets. Additionally, vegans generally strive to avoid the purchase and consumption of animal-derived products. Many vegans also try to reduce their consumption of processed products which may include animal-derived ingredients. Vegans may also choose to consume only food which has not been exposed to animal-derived methods of farming or production. 

In summary, vegans strive to have ethical, environmental, and health-conscious practices in their diets and lifestyle decisions. In their effort to eliminate animal exploitation and produce a positive environmental and animal-welfare impact, vegans often seek to reduce their carbon footprint in all aspects of their life. These include choosing vegan produce, using cruelty-free makeup and other vegan products, reducing water usage, practising compassion, and educating others. 

Additionally, vegans may choose to avoid all animal-based products, including leather, wool and silk. This is not universally accepted, as some vegans may still wear materials made of natural cellular structure or synthetic materials with an animal-derived origin. In some cases, vegans also avoid ingredients derived from animal waste, such as some vitamin and probiotic products.