ABSTRACT
Aligning human, animal and environmental well-being from a veterinary perspective presents a significant challenge, given the multitude and magnitude of inter-connected planetary issues facing humanity. Vet Sustain, established in late 2019, is a group of veterinary professionals who recognise that their influence and responsibilities extend beyond animals under their care. Vet Sustain aims to motivate and inspire veterinary professionals across the globe to unite under a One Welfare umbrella, framed by six interconnected goals, and work towards a sustainable future for humans, animals and the environment. Vet Sustain’s Six Goals are: Diverse and abundant wildlife; A Good Life for Animals; Net zero warming; Health and happiness; A no waste society; and Enough clean water for all. Vet Sustain recognises the need to utilise the trusted reputation of the veterinary profession for the greater good. In this chapter, the veterinary sphere of influence is evaluated and explored, covering animal health and welfare in food production, the role of agroecological approaches to align human, animal and environmental interests, tackling antimicrobial resistance and responsible medicine use, minimising the planetary footprint of veterinary practice per se, the role of vets in conservation projects, and finally engagement as citizens to effect change.
