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.
Motivated to help all veterinary stakeholders take control of their sustainability through access to education and leadership — Gudrun is a past president of the British Veterinary Association and head veterinary officer at Simplyhealth.
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.
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.
Qualified in animal behaviour and welfare, Sean is a Senior Vet at PDSA and a former BVA President. Winner of the WVA Global Animal Welfare Award, Sean lectures internationally and Chairs the FVE Animal Welfare Working Group.
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.
Committed to supporting veterinary businesses with their sustainable change efforts - Chantelle brings over 18 years of commercial expertise and is also the founder of Eco Offset Ltd.
Recent veterinary graduate with interests in social, environmental and professional sustainability. Previous president (2019-20) and current Alumni Trustee of RVC Students' Union and current Trustee of BVCIS.
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.
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.
