In the coming future ambitious sustainability goals for European livestock are proposed like moving to a carbon neutral Europe by 2050, reducing the use of antibiotics by 50% and nutrient losses by least 50% by 2030, restoring ecosystems and biodiversity, reaching 25% of land areas devoted to organic farming, positioning European aquaculture production as the global reference for sustainability and quality.
In this context, livestock farming, and aquaculture should significantly evolve in order to reduce drastically its negative environmental impact while at the same time tackling health and animal welfare issues, and aim to provide a fair livelihood for farmers. Climate, better use of resources, one health and welfare should be placed at the heart of the innovations.
Well-managed livestock and aquaculture systems can also support the
achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and notability contribute to the vitality of numerous regions of Europe. IRTA is an impact oriented organization that generates value from its research, boosting innovation with a cross disciplinary approach, which works hand in hand with the livestock and aquaculture sector and the administration. Like other socioeconomic sectors, in the coming decades the agri-food industry will have to deal with increasing complexity and IRTA will be offering innovations and science-based solutions.
This meeting is an example of IRTA commitment with the new challenges and the transition to a more sustainable livestock farming and aquaculture, to a one health approach and the applications of new technologies to accomplish with the consumers demands responding to their needs and protecting their interests.
