The path to developing a one welfare framework.

Abstract

Abstract The content of this book chapter combines the result of personal ideas from the author and collaborating experts, stakeholder discussion outputs, published literature, participants to an electronic global consultation on a One Welfare framework and definition proposal. One Welfare is a framework for improving animal welfare and human well-being. One Welfare developed in this book frames the many connections between humans, animals and the environment, and how harnessing this thinking will improve animal welfare. Improvements in animal welfare do not always progress as expected and most of the time it is humans who cause the majority of animal welfare issues. It is therefore necessary to ensure that human welfare aspects are considered if we are to achieve effective animal welfare improvements. Many agreed that One Welfare is a concept that encompasses, in a multidimensional way, a number of areas, including: the problems of animal production, workers and the impact on the environment of livestock farms; the reduction of violence across the world; and the connection between poor animal and human welfare states and how improved animal welfare can help improve human welfare. This book chapter aims to assist readers in identifying these connections and to inspire them to continue building up the evidence base in this area by putting One Welfare into practice and documenting further examples of these connections.