Welfare Science

Animal Welfare Progress Reasons for Hope

Despite the enormous scale of animal suffering, there are genuine reasons for optimism about animal welfare progress, from scientific advances to policy changes, corporate commitments, and cultural shifts.

Key Facts

Battery cage prohibition in EU and UK eliminated one of the worst welfare systems for hundreds of millions of birds
Veal crate ban and sow gestation crate restrictions have improved welfare for millions of animals
Public concern for animal welfare has increased across all major surveys over decades
Alternative proteins are growing rapidly and may transform food systems within decades
Young people show stronger animal welfare values than previous generations on average

Welfare Considerations

Maintaining motivation for animal welfare advocacy requires recognising genuine progress while remaining honest about the scale of remaining suffering. Celebrating victories, building community, and focusing on high-leverage interventions sustains effective advocacy over the long term. Progress is real and you can contribute to it.

What You Can Do

Celebrate animal welfare victories to maintain motivation and inspire others
Connect with animal welfare communities for mutual support and collective action
Focus your efforts on high-leverage interventions identified by evidence-based organisations