The trajectory of global animal welfare depends on the interaction of consumer behaviour, policy development, technological innovation, and cultural change over the coming decades.
Animal welfare progress over the past half-century has been significant despite the scale of challenge. Legislative frameworks, scientific understanding, and consumer awareness have all improved substantially. The next decades offer both challenges from increasing demand and opportunities from technological and cultural change. Maintaining and building momentum requires engaged citizens, ambitious policy, and continued scientific advancement informing all three.