Farm Animals

Pig Welfare and Welfare Progress and Reasons for Hope 2026

Despite persistent challenges, there are genuine reasons for hope in pig welfare advocacy in 2026, with measurable progress across multiple dimensions.

Key Facts

Farrowing crate phase-out timelines are now committed in the UK, Netherlands, and New Zealand
CO2 stunning alternatives are commercially viable and being adopted in leading markets
Consumer demand for higher-welfare pork has grown every year for 10 years consecutively
Pig welfare research output doubled between 2020 and 2026
The global pig welfare advocacy community has never been larger or better resourced

Welfare Considerations

Hope grounded in evidence sustains advocacy. 2026 provides genuine, measurable reasons for hope alongside honest acknowledgement of the challenges ahead.

What You Can Do

Celebrate and share evidence of welfare progress to sustain motivation
Use evidence of progress in recruitment of new welfare advocates
Continue to advocate with renewed energy based on demonstrated progress