Coming in 2021!
Veterinary Services in a changing world: climate change and other external factors
Scientific and Technical Review, Vol. 40 (2), 2021
Animal agriculture is diverse and huge: the global industry employs over 1.5 billion people, occupies over 40% of the earth’s ice-free surface, and provides 40% of the protein consumed globally. Demand for animal source food continues to grow globally, driven mainly by increased consumption in low- and middle-income countries, and this trend is likely to continue. At the same time, animal agriculture is a significant contributor to climate change and emerging zoonotic diseases, and there is concern over the well-being of workers as well as the welfare of animals among other challenges. Recent events have drawn unprecedented attention to the threat of zoonotic emerging infectious disease but have also renewed commitment to One Health as essential to the management and, more importantly, prevention of such threats. Veterinary Services are both affected by, and can have great effect on, emerging zoonotic diseases. They underpin animal agriculture, are a global public good, and make essential contributions to the four pillars of sustainable development. They must also ensure their performance and resilience in the face of external factors.