FAO commits to new animal health and sustainability plans

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) today unveiled a series of new initiatives aimed at strengthening animal health and the sustainability of the livestock sector, following discussions at its second Global Conference on Sustainable Livestock Transformation.

Held at FAO headquarters in Rome, the three-day event brought together FAO Members, policymakers, farmers, private sector leaders, industry associations, civil society, NGOs, researchers, and development agencies. Participants shared experiences and showcased actionable solutions to drive the sustainable transformation of the livestock sector.

The conference featured plenary discussions, expert panels, pitch sessions and thematic forums focused on climate change mitigation, low-emission livestock systems, animal health and welfare, sustainable feeding and breeding, food security, and innovation.

In his closing remarks, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu thanked participants for their contributions and announced a series of commitments the organization will implement as a result of the conference.

Among the key initiatives, FAO will launch two new Global Hubs: the One Health Knowledge and Intelligence Hub, and the Sustainable Livestock Transformation Innovation Hub.

FAO will also introduce the Global Challenge Programme for Transboundary Animal Diseases – a bold new business model to protect animal health, support livestock production, and safeguard livelihoods worldwide.

A network of FAO Reference Centres for Animal Feed will be established to unlock the full potential of the animal feed sector, particularly in developing countries.

And in 2026, FAO will host the first-ever Global Conference on One Health in Agrifood Systems to showcase how One Health connects animal, human, plant, soil, environmental health, food safety, and nutrition.

Conference’s outcomes

The Director-General said the conference had showcased powerful examples of innovation, collaboration and leadership, demonstrating how livestock systems – when guided by good practices – can deliver on the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life - leaving no one behind.

Ministers and high-level representatives from across the world shared national goals and commitments. Farmers, private sector leaders, and consumer groups discussed solutions to challenges such as productivity, market access, finance, and sustainability. Experts explored inclusive models, gender-responsive approaches, and youth leadership to ensure equitable transformation. Financial institutions and donor agencies examined how to scale up successful practices through targeted investments and blended finance.

“We have all the tools in the toolbox to turn these challenges into opportunities, and opportunities into real action,” Qu said.

Looking ahead, the Director-General stressed that sustainable livestock transformation must become the norm rather than the exception. This means scaling up good practices, sharing innovations, and delivering on commitments.