Welfare Science

Animal Welfare and Climate Change: Policy Integration

The integration of animal welfare into climate change policy frameworks is gaining momentum, recognising the connections between livestock systems, biodiversity, and emissions.

Key Facts

Livestock agriculture contributes approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions
Higher-welfare production systems generally have lower stocking densities and may be associated with lower per-unit emissions
Climate-smart agriculture frameworks are increasingly including animal welfare as a co-benefit
Wild animal welfare is directly threatened by climate change through habitat loss, food scarcity, and extreme weather events

Welfare Considerations

Animal welfare and climate policy have traditionally developed in separate silos. Integrating them creates opportunities for more ambitious and sustainable food system transformation that serves animals, people, and the planet simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Support policy positions that link animal welfare improvement with climate action
Engage with climate organisations about the welfare dimensions of food system change
Advocate for animal welfare to be included in national climate adaptation strategies