Partner Letter to ADB: Revised Environmental and Social Framework (October 2024)
Stop Financing Factory Farming
30th November '24
In October 2024, stakeholders raised concerns about the Asian Development Bank’s revised Environmental and Social Framework (ESF), focusing on animal welfare, feed production, and antimicrobial resistance in industrial livestock systems.
They welcomed the inclusion of animal welfare in ESS6 but urged the ADB to adopt the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) definition. This would clarify that good welfare includes health, safety, and the ability for animals to express natural behaviors, supported by humane practices.
The environmental impacts of animal feed production were also addressed. Stakeholders recommended that the ESF explicitly classify feed suppliers to livestock producers as ‘primary suppliers’ to ensure accountability.
Regarding antimicrobial resistance, they highlighted risks linked to the routine use of antimicrobials in industrial farming. Advocates called for a shift to health-oriented systems that prioritize preventive farming methods over prophylactic antimicrobial use.
Finally, they offered their expertise to assist with ADB’s planned 2025 guidance materials, aiming to strengthen animal welfare standards and reduce risks of disease and antimicrobial resistance. These recommendations aim to align the ESF with sustainable and ethical practices.
You can read the full letter at the link below.
