The Vet Sustain initiative has been set up in response to a growing interest in sustainability issues amongst members of the veterinary profession. Areas of interest range from sustainable food animal production, environmental best practice in pet ownership and a “good life” for kept animals, through to responsible medicine use, boosting biodiversity and environmental initiatives in veterinary practice.
Coordinator of the Steering Group and Veterinary Consultant, Laura Higham, commented:
“Veterinary surgeons and nurses already deliver a wide range of sustainability services to society, but we have an opportunity to increase our prominence and influence even further”.
The online initiative launched today will use a dedicated Facebook group to engage individuals, practices, enterprises and students interested in sustainability via regular email newsletters, articles, initiatives, events, webinars and thought-leadership pieces.
Vet Sustain’s online presence and activities will be coordinated by a Steering Committee comprised of 14 senior veterinary professional figures and supported by an Advisory Group.
In addition to its digital activities, the Steering Committee will advocate policy uptake and has already identified several ambitious targets including integrating sustainability in to the curriculum of all UK veterinary schools, and in to the policy and standards of the key UK veterinary associations and institutions by 2025.
Higham, concluded: “Our vision is for the veterinary profession to be a leading force for sustainability. By building a network, we can develop an online presence to boost the visibility of the profession, connect with existing online veterinary networks, celebrate positive action, and drive change through advocacy”.
To find out more, sign up or share news about Vet Sustain, please visit their Facebook page or website.
You can also follow them via Twitter and sign up to their mailing list.
