Intensive animal agriculture has long been an overlooked sector with respect to both climate and human health. We are living through what is on track to be the hottest year on record and many countries have already started to experience the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this, animal agriculture has remained in the spotlight, not only for facilitating the spread of zoonotic diseases but also for accelerating the rate of global warming.
Holding engagements with the $2-trillion animal agriculture sector is absolutely crucial if we are to mitigate the future environmental and social risks associated with land conversion, biodiversity, feed production and waste management; all of which are converging issues that relate to climate change, emissions and the COVID-19 pandemic.
But how should investors and capital market stakeholders use their fiduciary duty and influence as responsible stewards of capital to help transform our food system and safeguard both people and the environment in this uncertain time?