Policy

Transparency in Factory Farming Operations

Lack of transparency in intensive animal agriculture prevents public scrutiny and welfare accountability.

Key Facts

Most intensive farm buildings have no windows and no public visibility
Undercover investigations have repeatedly revealed conditions that violate existing welfare laws
Industry lobbying has opposed mandatory CCTV requirements in many jurisdictions
Agricultural photography restrictions (ag-gag laws) have been introduced in some US states
Consumer trust in farming is higher when transparency measures are in place

Welfare Considerations

Industrial animal agriculture operates largely out of public sight, enabling welfare standards to be lower than consumers would accept if they were aware. Mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses and high-risk farming operations, combined with public reporting, is essential for accountability and welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses in your country
Oppose ag-gag legislation that restricts investigation of farming operations
Choose products from farms that offer transparent supply chain information
Engage with and support investigative organisations that document farm animal conditions