European Commission announces proposal to ban caged farming by 2030.
Every creature deserves kindness and a life outside of a cage.
When farm animals like chickens, pigs, and cows are given the space to graze and roam, they generally live healthier and less stressful lives compared to those in confinement. Outside of cages, hens can meet essential behavioural needs, such as exploring, sleeping, dustbathing, and stretching. When allowed to graze, cows and other ruminants can naturally gain nutrients from their environment and regenerate soil fertility through manure. This process is far more holistic and climate-friendly than industrial farming. As we develop more sustainable methods of feeding the planet, agricultural practices that embrace freedom for farm animals are essential.
On World Day for Farmed Animals last October, we celebrated as the ‘End The Cage Age’ European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) was submitted to the European Commission (EC) with 1.4 million signatures. This incredible show of support to ban caged farming exceeded its goal by nearly 50%, representing the first successful ECI on farmed animal welfare. As a result, the dream of many supporters for a cage-free world is becoming a legislative reality! On June 30th, the EC announced it will propose legislation to phase out caged farming by 2027, improving conditions for over 300 million animals every year.
According to Olga Kikou of Compassion in World Farming, “Ending the use of cages is a massive step towards ending factory farming.”
Despite this recent victory for our friends on the farm, animal welfare still has a long road ahead. The end the cage campaign is now focusing on pressuring European leaders to follow-through on delivering our ambition. In Canada, where our rank on the Global Animal Protection Index remains low, organizations like Animal Justice advocate for specific and enforceable animal welfare laws at the federal level. Furthermore, practices beyond the farm, such as lobster preparation, also need stronger regulation to ensure ethical treatment is provided.
You can engage in animal protection by reducing your daily consumption of meat/dairy, eating meals that are in tune with the seasons, and following GentleWays for OurPlanet in our commitment to eliminating factory farms by 2030.
Learn more today about protecting animals on our food solutions page, and download our free mobile app, i4ThePlanet, to make your carbon footprint gentler and help restore our connection with nature!
Photo Credit: Kim Hanson