COP28 less anti-animal than previous meetings

The role of agriculture, including the livestock sector as part of the solution to climate change, was clearly recognised at COP28.

- Dr Koos Coetzee.

For many years, livestock farming and particularly ruminant farming, has been accused that its production of greenhouse gases is a major cause of global warming. The latest Conference of the Parties (COP28), held in December 2023 in Dubai, was slightly less anti-animal than previous ones. The main reason for this is the concerted efforts by international organisations like the International Dairy Federation and World Farmers’ Organisation. Slowly the tide is turning but it will need continuing effort from NGOs te ensure that agriculture’s positive role is recognised.

WHAT IS THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES?

The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) came into force in 1994 and established COP as its main decision-making body. It is responsible for guiding the UNFCCC in its response to global challenges and local needs. The first meeting (COP1) took place in Berlin in 1995. It recognised the need for joint international action on climate change. Parties submit reports on the actions they are taking in terms of their international commitments and make recommendations on their actions. While agriculture was for many years regarded as part of the problem, this changed with COP27 and was clearly illustrated with the decisions taken at COP28.

COP28