Farm Animals

Join host Maureen Armstrong as she talks with Steve McIvor, CEO of London, UK-based World Animal Protection, an international organization that has been working for over 50 years to end animal cruelty by addressing the root causes.A major—if not the major—cause of animal suffering is one that most of us are aware of but, perhaps, tend to ignore: factory farming.The way humans have raised animals for food hasn’t always been as cruel as it is today, but an increasing human population has created extraordinary demands. From the facilities in which animals are raised and slaughtered, to the physical characteristics of animals themselves, that chicken sandwich, glass of milk, or cheeseburger in your hand is the product of an international, interdependent system that generally treats sentient beings as inanimate commodities.  It is also a key driver of climate change.But, as Steve reveals, it’s not all doom and gloom. Thankfully, via social media and channels like this podcast, awareness of animal cruelty in farming is increasing, and changes to regulations and technology mean that we can do better for billions of animals around the globe.It’s a conversation that will increase your awareness, enable you to make positive changes, and leave you feeling hopeful about the future.Don’t miss it!Highlights01:30 Introduction, Steve and World Animal Protection.04:34 Overview of the farmed animal industry and how things have changed.10:00 Forgetting what (or whom) we’re eating.22:40 A driver of climate change.30:00 Plant-based alternatives and cultivated meat.38:30 Things the consumer can do to help.Episode Links:World Animal ProtectionWorld Animal Protection on Instagram @SteveMcIvorCEOSteve’s LinkedIn