Experience shows that the adoption of good practices can make livestock systems truly sustainable, QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), said today as he opened the second Global Conference on Sustainable Livestock Transformation.
Held at FAO's headquarters in Rome until 1 October, the conference convenes FAO Members, policymakers, farmers, private companies, industry associations, civil society representatives, NGOs, researchers, and development agencies to share experiences and showcase actionable solutions for the sustainable transformation of the livestock sector.
Building on the outcomes of the historic First Global Conference in 2023 and subsequent regional forums, this Second Global Conference shifts the focus from dialogue to action. Under the theme Fostering Change, Scaling Innovations, Driving Solutions, the agenda highlights the critical role of livestock in transforming global agrifood systems and holistically ensuring the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all.
Livestock play an indispensable role in societies.
The livestock sector supports the livelihoods of around 1.3 billion people globally and makes up 40 percent of the world's agricultural GDP. For many in low- and middle-income countries, livestock are a primary source of income and act as a critical financial safety net, providing savings and insurance against economic shocks. They contribute significantly to food security and nutrition, providing approximately one-third of the global protein intake through animal-source foods. Moreover, science continues to affirm the nutritional value of livestock products, with milk, eggs, and meat recognized as essential components of balanced diets, particularly for children and vulnerable populations.
Beyond nutrition, livestock are vital sources of income and employment, creating opportunities for youth and women, and offering critical resilience for vulnerable households in times of crisis. They also contribute to soil fertility and support ecosystems.
However, the sector faces considerable challenges, including its environmental impact alongside public health risks and animal welfare concerns.
"But we also have the solutions," said the Director-General, citing examples of farms around the world where manure is converted into clean energy, by-products are repurposed into new materials, and animals are raised in healthy, humane conditions.
"The lesson is clear - and science confirms it: When good practices are adopted, livestock systems can be truly sustainable," Qu said.
Three reasons why this conference matters
In his opening remarks, the Director-General outlined three key reasons why this Global Conference is particularly significant.
Firstly, sustainable livestock transformation demands collaboration and shared commitment. More than 1,000 stakeholders are expected to participate in the conference and in the upcoming Global Forum for Animal Feed and Feed Regulators.
Secondly, the sector stands at an important crossroads. Advances in science, digital technologies, and sustainable practices present opportunities that were unimaginable a decade ago.
"Today, we have the chance to shape livestock systems that nourish everyone, protect our planet, and empower communities for generations to come," Qu said.
Thirdly, this Global Conference is focused on practical solutions, action over theory.
The three-day conference will feature plenary discussions, expert panels, pitch sessions and thematic forums focused on climate change mitigation, low-emission livestock systems, animal health and welfare, sustainable feeding and breeding, food security, and the role of innovation in transforming the sector.
A dedicated exhibition will run alongside the conference, featuring concrete solutions, technologies and initiatives that support the transformation of livestock systems. It will highlight examples from countries, the private sector and research institutions, offering participants the opportunity to explore innovations and best practices for building more sustainable and resilient livestock systems.
Monday's High-level Ministerial session included interventions from Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh, India's Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Abderahim Awat Atteib, Chad's Minister of Livestock and Animal production, and Hassan Hussein Mohamed, Somalia's Minister of Livestock, Forestry and Range, were also scheduled to participate in the conference.
FAO's role
As FAO marks its 80th anniversary, it continues to deliver tangible results on the ground.
The organization continues to support countries in mobilizing long-term investments - through the FAO Investment Centre, the Global Environment Facility, the Green Climate Fund, the Pandemic Fund, the FAO Hand-In-Hand Initiative, South-South Cooperation, and many other key partners.
FAO also supports Members implement One Health in agrifood systems, delivering pandemic prevention, tackling antimicrobial resistance and helping countries address zoonotic diseases that threaten both animal and human health.
Recent initiatives include the Global Strategy for Avian Influenza 2024-2033, accelerated efforts to eradicate Peste des Petits Ruminants by 2030, and the advancement of a Global Plan of Action for Sustainable Livestock Transformation.
As the risk of transboundary animal diseases continues to grow, FAO remains firmly committed and will launch the Global Challenge Programme for Transboundary Animal Diseases - a bold new initiative to protect animal health, strengthen livestock production, and safeguard livelihoods worldwide.
"This event will demonstrate how the commitments we made in 2023 have been translated into real action on the ground - action that is improving lives and livelihoods, protecting our environment, and building resilience in every country and every region," Qu said.
