The impacts of climate change on animal welfare are in the spotlight this week, with the RSPCA’s 2022 Animal Welfare Seminar kicking off today.
Held online today and tomorrow (16-17 February), the Seminar brings together academics, researchers, and non-government organisations from across Australia and overseas, to examine the devastating impacts of climate change on animal welfare, approaches to managing animals in disasters, and adaptations and actions required to help address climate change and build resilience.
RSPCA Australia CEO Richard Mussell said that the impact of climate change on animal welfare is impossible to ignore.
“Whether it’s extreme weather events, prolonged droughts, fires or floods, there’s no question that climate change affects a countless number of animals.
“RSPCA’s 2022 Animal Welfare Seminar will explore the impact of climate change across all animal sectors – including wildlife, farm animals and our pets.
“The Seminar is not just about raising awareness of the impact of climate change on animals, but also about learning from each other how we can all play a part in mitigating this impact and building resilience.
“We are very pleased to bring together an experienced and engaging line-up of speakers, as well as an NGO panel featuring organisations with direct, on-the-ground experience in these areas.”
Today (Wednesday), the first afternoon of the seminar, will focus on collaboration, planning and implementation of arrangements for managing animals in disasters.
Tomorrow (Thursday), the second afternoon of the seminar, will focus on the impacts of climate change on ecosystems, the welfare of livestock and wildlife, and the need for adaptation, action and fundamental change to address these impacts.
More information is available on the Seminar website, including a program and speaker bios. Registration is free.
Interviews with speakers can be arranged.
Subscribe today and we’ll keep you updated on all the latest campaigns, events and news.