Welfare Science

Animal Welfare and Climate Change: Intersections and Responses

Analysis of how climate change affects animal welfare and how welfare and climate agendas can align.

Key Facts

Heat stress in farm animals increasing as global temperatures rise
Wildfire and flooding cause mass wildlife welfare emergencies
Climate-smart farming practices can improve both welfare and sustainability
Reducing meat consumption addresses both climate and welfare simultaneously
Extreme weather events creating new wildlife rehabilitation challenges

Welfare Considerations

Climate change is an emerging welfare crisis for animals. Heat stress in livestock, habitat destruction, wildfire, flooding, and drought are causing suffering at scale. Aligning climate and welfare agendas by promoting plant-rich diets, regenerative agriculture, and habitat restoration creates co-benefits for animals and the planet. Welfare organisations are increasingly integrating climate into their advocacy.

What You Can Do

Reduce animal product consumption to lower your climate and welfare footprint
Support animal welfare organisations engaging with climate adaptation
Advocate for climate-smart farming policies that integrate welfare standards