The global call to transition away from industrial animal agriculture is growing, driven by concerns over deforestation, animal welfare, inequalities and the climate crisis. Yet, in many parts of the world, livestock is managed by smallholders and pastoralists in low-impact systems that sustain livelihoods, build resilience, and steward ecosystems. This workshop explores what a just transition means for livestock—one that moves beyond environmental targets to include equity, social justice, and locally driven adaptation.

A just transition must align climate goals with food security and justice, livelihoods, and rural development. Linking lessons from the energy sector, this dialogue will examine how policies can support shifts toward sustainable livestock systems while empowering local communities. Issues such as agroecology, inclusive carbon markets, biodigesters and off-grid energy solutions, fertilizer reduction, and soil-livestock synergies will be explored. Central to the discussion will be amplifying voices from the Global South, ensuring Indigenous Peoples, youth and farmers shape future policy, and identifying how food systems transitions can be integrated into updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Participants at this 2 hour workshop will co-develop policy recommendations for accelerating a just transition in livestock systems through an interactive workshop process. 

Outcomes of the workshop

• Improved understanding of how the just transition concept can be applied in livestock sector with principles agreed upon by participants
• Recommendations for what the just transition means in different contexts and regions
• A shared roadmap toward climate-resilient, humane and equitable livestock systems that contribute to adaptation, soil health, and sustainable food futures.