Farm Animals

Farmed Pig Welfare and Biodiversity Links

The relationship between pig farming practices and biodiversity, and welfare co-benefits of sustainable systems.

Key Facts

Extensive outdoor pig systems can support farmland biodiversity when managed well
Rotational grazing by pigs creates habitat disturbance beneficial to some invertebrates
Manure from pig systems is a valuable resource for soil health and biodiversity
Extensive systems reduce environmental pollution impacts on biodiversity
Welfare-positive outdoor pig farming can be integrated with nature conservation goals

Welfare Considerations

Well-managed outdoor pig systems can deliver welfare benefits for pigs and biodiversity benefits for wildlife, creating aligned incentives for sustainable farming.

What You Can Do

Support outdoor pig farms using rotational grazing and welfare-friendly management
Advocate for agri-environment schemes that reward welfare-positive pig farming
Learn about the biodiversity co-benefits of higher welfare pig systems