From climate change to rising resource costs, farmers are dealing with increasing pressures that directly impact the welfare of their livestock. The reality is, that farmers play a crucial role in determining animal welfare standards, therefore we like to share insights from a recent study on the farmers’ perspective on animal welfare – and we invite you to share any of your experiences as a farmer, too!
Climate change: a growing challenge
This might state the obvious, but climate change is a real threat to agriculture. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and droughts are all taking a toll on livestock. For animals, this could mean more heat stress, reduced water availability and challenges with feed quality.
For farmers, these conditions create a complex balancing act. They must figure out how to protect their animals from these impacts while still running a sustainable, profitable business. This might involve rethinking traditional farming methods or exploring new technologies, which leads us to our next point.
Embracing innovation
Technology has become a game-changer in many industries, and farming is no exception. Precision livestock farming, for example, is one way that farmers can improve animal welfare while also boosting productivity. With sensors, AI and data-driven tools, farmers can monitor their animals’ health in real time, catching issues like illness or heat stress before they become bigger problems.
While these innovations offer exciting possibilities, they can be expensive and require a leap of faith from farmers who are used to traditional methods. Still, it’s becoming clearer that embracing new technology will be essential in navigating the challenges of modern farming.
The rising cost of resources
It’s no secret that running a farm isn’t cheap, and the costs of key resources are climbing. This has a direct impact onanimal welfare, as farmers may struggle to afford high-quality feed or make necessary investments in their operations.Feed shortages mean animals aren’t getting the nutrients they need, which leads to lower productivity and a higher risk of disease.
One solution farmers are turning to is diversifying their farming practices. Some are exploring less intensive diets for their animals or growing alternative crops that can withstand climate change. Others are considering silvopastoral systems, which combine livestock farming with tree cultivation to create a more sustainable ecosystem.
A changing landscape for farmers
Beyond the immediate challenges of climate and cost, farmers are also struggling with shifting consumer demands and market pressures. Consumers increasingly demand ethically produced, animal-friendly products—but they also want affordable prices. This creates a tug-of-war, where farmers are expected to meet higher welfare standards while keeping costs low.
Then there’s the issue of biodiversity. Over the years, selective breeding has focused on producing high-yield animals, but this comes at a cost. Traditional livestock breeds, often more resilient and better suited to less intensive farming methods, are disappearing. Preserving these breeds could be a key part of maintaining animal welfare in the future.
Welfare equation
Farmers are a vital part of the animal welfare equation. Their decisions, challenges and innovations shape how animals are treated and how sustainable farming can be. Recognising and supporting their role is essential if we want to ensure the well-being of farm animals in the years to come.
As consumers, we can play our part by understanding the complex challenges farmers face and supporting products that reflect ethical and sustainable farming practices. Together, we can help create a better future for animals, farmers and the planet.
