The third installment of the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, the Working Group III contribution, has been released. The report is clear that greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to stop the temperature rising further. A rapid reduction in fossil fuel use is essential this decade. The report also encourages government programs that remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, including increased tree planting, sustained regeneration of the environment and innovative technology.
Dr Jeannet Kessels, chair of Veterinarians for Climate Action (VfCA) says: “The health and welfare of all animals can be protected but only if governments make rapid and determined efforts to reduce emissions and control carbon dioxide levels.”
VfCA delivers a comprehensive program to support veterinary clinics in becoming leaders in environmental sustainability, reducing their carbon footprint and helping to mitigate climate change.
Information is provided to help all those who own and care for animals. As the temperature rises and heatwaves become more frequent, adequate shade and water are essential to avoid deaths from heat stress.
In the paddocks, the deleterious results of higher temperatures on pasture growth and water availability will affect livestock health and welfare. To assist in climate mitigation, scientific research is exploring ways to reduce methane production by ruminants and vets are helping to extend that work to all farmers.
Scientists predict an increase in severe weather events. The 2019–20 bushfires killed or displaced about 3 billion wild animals. This year there have been reports of wildlife, livestock and pets killed in the severe floods on the east of Australia.
The spread of diseases, particularly those carried by vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks in areas affected by warmer and wetter climates, is an emerging risk for animals as much as people.
Dr Kessels urges people to prioritise the need for climate action when they cast their vote at the Federal Election next month. The next government must urgently develop a national climate plan to reduce emissions and actively embrace the opportunities of renewable energy for the sake of our children and grandchildren as well as animals.
