Livestock and Climate Change - In Person Event

VetSalus hosted a group of veterinary professionals for two days of classroom education, designed to effectively integrate sustainability into veterinary practices.

On 2nd and 3rd October 2024, VetSalus hosted the “Livestock and Climate Change - A Veterinary Perspective” in person CPD workshop, focusing on the veterinarian's role in addressing the complex relationship between livestock production and climate change. Over two intensive days, participants delved into key concepts such as sustainability, emissions, animal welfare, and the unique potential of veterinarians as agents of change.

The course brought together a diverse group of engaged participants and delivered new knowledge and tools to tackle the major challenges facing our planet and profession. Through lectures, discussions, and practical sessions, the course highlighted how veterinarians can play a central role in promoting sustainable development.

Key Themes and Takeaways:

Participant feedback highlighted significant professional benefits. Here are some of the main takeaways from the course:

• Understanding the climate debate: Participants gained a fundamental understanding of concepts and tools related to sustainability and carbon accounting. Many noted that they now feel better equipped to actively engage in the climate debate.

• Expanding perspectives: The course challenged traditional views on sustainability. It addressed not just methane emissions from cattle but also broader aspects such as calculating CO₂ emissions and the influence of animal welfare.

• The unique role of veterinarians: Attendees were inspired to see themselves as active agents of change. With their professional background and expertise, veterinarians are uniquely positioned to influence both agricultural practices and societal debates.

An Interactive and Inspiring Experience

The combination of lectures, workshops, and discussions received praise from participants.  Feedback highlighted the mix of theory and practice, with those in attendance describing the course as:

The program included topics such as:

• How different agricultural systems impact climate goals and animal welfare.

• The significance of animal health for greenhouse gas emissions and its connection to antimicrobial resistance.

• The advantages and challenges of grazing-based systems.

• Practical behavior change models to help veterinarians drive sustainable transformation.

Participants also had the chance to network and share experiences in informal settings, such as fireside talks and a shared dinner. These social activities fostered a strong sense of community and an exchange of ideas.

A Path Forward for Veterinarians

The course demonstrated that veterinarians have a pivotal role to play in the fight against climate change. They can help balance the needs of production, the environment, and animal welfare in a way that benefits both society and the planet. As one participant remarked,

I’ve found a way into the climate debate so I can be more active!

Thank you to all participants and instructors for making this course a success. 

VetSalus can provide a wide range of CPD education to veterinarians and paraprofessionals within the agricultural sector. We can provide exclusive cohorts of our online courses, deliver in-person training at a venue to suit you, or help you develop your own educational materials. To find out more about our bespoke education packages, please contact us.