Farm Animals

Pig Welfare and Welfare and Ecosystem Services

Pig farming systems interact with ecosystems in ways that affect animal welfare, soil health, and biodiversity, creating connections between welfare and environmental sustainability.

Key Facts

Outdoor pig systems improve soil structure and biodiversity compared to indoor systems
Pigs foraging on permanent pasture contribute to habitat management and invertebrate diversity
Slurry management from indoor pig systems affects water quality and ecosystem health
Extensive pig systems sequester more carbon per unit protein than intensive systems
One Health approaches link pig welfare, human health, and ecosystem health in integrated frameworks

Welfare Considerations

Pig welfare is not separate from ecosystem health but deeply connected. Systems that support pig welfare often also support ecosystem services and sustainability.

What You Can Do

Support outdoor and extensive pig farming systems where available
Advocate for One Health approaches in agriculture policy
Choose pork from systems with positive environmental as well as welfare credentials