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The United Nations Environment Assembly adopted a resolution linking sustainability and animal welfare for the first time. Seven member states sponsored the Animal Welfare Environment Sustainable Development Nexus resolution, which was approved earlier this month. This historic move could be a catalyst for widespread government action to protect animals, and indirectly the environment.
Burkina Faso (Democratic Republic of Congo), Ethiopia, Ghana, Pakistan and Senegal all demand a joint report, which illustrates the link between sustainability and animal welfare. The seven resolution-sponsoring states expect the World Health Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization and World Organization for Animal Health to participate.
Infusing momentum into action
The UN General Assembly has mentioned previously the importance of unilaterally protecting all living species. The Sustainable Development AgendaThe desire to create a world in which humanity is in harmony with nature and where wildlife and other living creatures are protected is cited by the author. However, observers noted that there have not been any concrete policies to make this a reality. This has led to biodiversity loss, species extermination, and a decline in environmental health. This new resolution is being promoted as a potential driver for real and lasting change and animal equality.
We are proud to have reached this historic moment in the animal protection movement, James Yeates CEO at the World Federation for AnimalsIn a statement. It is a huge success for our partners and members and shows the impact of a worldwide alliance of animal NGOs. Understanding the interconnectedness of animal suffering and environmental harm is essential for improving the well being of animals all over the world. Inter-agency collaboration and shared goals are crucial stepping stones.
The The nexus itselfThere are many critical factors that need to be acknowledged. It is important to recognize that animal welfare is an important factor in addressing environmental problems. There is also strong scientific evidence supporting this claim. It is important to recognize that human health and well-being are directly connected to the health and welfare animals, sustainable development, as well as the environment. This has led to calls to include animal welfare in the One Health global initiative.
Voices for Animals
The African Union Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources, Africa Network for Animal Welfare and the World Federation for Animals worked together to spread awareness about the new resolution. Many other animal welfare organisations around the globe contributed their support, as did environmental lobbyists. The multidisciplinary approach aligns well with the One Health initiative which promotes collaborative efforts for maximum personal as well as global resilience.
The world’s top-ranking decision-making body for the environment, Josphat Nagonyo, founder and CEO of ANAW, said today that the strong body of science supporting animal welfare was acknowledged by the highest-ranking body. Today is a historic moment. We made a huge step forward in order to better protect animals and humans as well as the planet. We showed how we are all better together.
Continual efforts to improve animal welfare
Despite the positive resolution, animal welfare standards still remain below ideal. It was revealed that EU farmers are struggling with cruel practices to make ends meet. Many are open to the possibility of cultivated meat in the future, to avoid distasteful practices in their sector.
Last year, African animal rights organizations made a loud and public request for more funding. The welfare movement has lost momentum due to lack of funding, research and strategic partnerships. It was also mentioned that government bureaucracy is a hindrance for progress. This optimism stems from the optimism that the new resolution will reduce red tape.
Companies are looking to promote animal welfare awareness at a commercial level by offering meat alternatives. VFC, an activist-founded company, is one of the most popular. Veganuary Matthew Glover and chef Adam Lyons launched the UK brand in response to the horrible conditions that farmed chickens are living in. After an undercover visit at a poultry unit, the pair decided to make a cruelty-free alternative to fried chicken. The brand is now available in the United States and hopes to make a significant impact on conventional chicken product profits.