What's Happening?
The IFOAM Animal Husbandry Alliance (IAHA) conference, organized by FiBL, is scheduled to take place from April 28 to 30, 2026, in Frick, Switzerland. This international conference will focus on the future of global livestock farming, specifically examining
whether organic animal husbandry can serve as a model for future livestock systems. The event will feature experts from various fields, including practice, research, advisory services, policy, and the organic movement, who will discuss sustainable livestock farming. The conference will include four thematic sessions and four plenary sessions covering topics such as animal welfare, breeding, One Health, climate change, agroforestry, and the integration of crop and livestock farming. Additionally, the role of organic livestock systems in sustainable food systems will be a key focus. The program will also offer interactive workshops, excursions to organic farms, and a social program to facilitate networking and exchange among participants.
Why It's Important?
The conference is significant as it addresses the pressing need for sustainable livestock farming practices in the face of global challenges such as climate change and food security. By exploring organic animal husbandry as a potential model, the conference aims to contribute to the development of more sustainable and resilient food systems. This is particularly relevant as the agriculture sector faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact while meeting the growing demand for food. The discussions and outcomes of this conference could influence policy decisions and farming practices worldwide, promoting a shift towards more sustainable agricultural systems. Stakeholders in the agriculture industry, including policymakers, researchers, and farmers, stand to benefit from the insights and innovations shared at this event.
What's Next?
Following the conference, it is expected that the insights and recommendations generated will be disseminated to a broader audience, potentially influencing future policies and practices in livestock farming. Participants may collaborate on research projects or initiatives aimed at implementing sustainable practices discussed during the event. Additionally, the conference could lead to increased advocacy for organic farming methods and greater investment in sustainable agriculture technologies. The outcomes may also prompt further international dialogue and cooperation on sustainable livestock farming, contributing to global efforts to address climate change and food security challenges.
