The world is facing a multitude of complex and pressing challenges. Climate change, biodiversity depletion and public health pandemics are presenting existential threats to human civilisation and the natural world. Together we can make a difference.
With the intention of uniting the actions of veterinary professionals, we have created six goals for sustainability. Our Goals highlight the ways that veterinary professionals can, and do, play a key role in addressing the multiple challenges facing society.
Conserve and enhance natural landscapes, habitats and biological diversity and abundance of wild terrestrial and aquatic plant and animal species.
Safeguard and advocate for the health and welfare, in life and at the point of death, of animals under our care and those that are affected by human activity.
Implement and promote decarbonisation through energy efficiency, the generation and use of renewable energy, mitigation of global warming and sequestration of carbon.
Safeguard and enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of people and support a transition to livelihoods and lifestyles that are fit for the future.
Minimise the usage and disposal of resources and materials, and support a transition to a circular economy.
Uphold best practice in fresh water conservation and protection to mitigate water stress and prevent water pollution.
Founded in 2019 by a group of veterinary professionals, the Vet Sustain team are volunteers who dedicate their time to championing the health of humans, animals and ecosystems.
Practising as a farm animal vet, Ed works with farmers and the Soil Association to help maximise the environmental benefits of nature friendly farming. He is also Sustainability Lead for a large independent practice, helping embed sustainability as a core value.
Recognised as a specialist in cattle health and production by RCVS, David has dedicated his career to improving sustainability in dairy practice. David is a specialist advisor to many global and national committees and societies.
Recognised as an RCVS and EBVS specialist in Small Animal Surgery, Zoë has worked in academia and private practice and is a passionate advocate for sustainability, both within education and our daily clinical practices.
Focused on animal welfare and responsible antibiotic usage — Laura supports the food production industry to become sustainable through her work as a veterinary consultant in sustainable agriculture at FAI.
Champion of corporate sustainability and responsible investment projects through his current role as Head of Food and Health at Chronos Sustainability, Nathan has also worked with the Humane Slaughter Association and Compassion in World Farming International.
Founder of Sustainable(ish) - a platform and online community empowering and inspiring individuals to take eco-action. Jen is an author, a qualified coach and Carbon Literacy trainer, and previously worked in small animal practice for over 10 years.
Justine is a well-known champion of environmental sustainability, conservation and animal welfare. She is currently the Head Vet for Wildlife and Exotics at the RSPCA, and a past BVA president (2021-2022), during which sustainability was her presidential theme.
With extensive experience in wildlife conservation over the last 25 yrs through various roles including leadership of the European Association of Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians (EAZWV), Stephanie has also contributed to policy development both at national and EU level.
Determined to promote positive change in the world through advocating for equitable solutions to global issues, Ellie brings a wealth of experience in One Health and clinical practice to her role as Operations Manager.
With experience in large animal clinical practice, academia and international development, Hannah is committed to driving education for sustainable development through her role as Technical Content Lead.
Our working groups have been formed by members of the Vet Sustain community. By joining together we’re able to work towards achieving our sustainability goals.
