Policy category summary: The AJP is committed to transitioning to a wholly plant-based economy. We recognise that in Aotearoa New Zealand our economic model is currently deeply reliant on the use of animals for food, products and exports. And that for many New Zealanders there is a strong historic and cultural connection to animal farming. But this is now destroying our wildlife, polluting our water and changing our climate, as well as inflicting unnecessary suffering on millions of sentient beings. This model is inherently risky as an on-going economic strategy, as new technologies, consumer preferences, societal concerns and changes in global trade threaten to reduce long-term demand for animal products alongside increasing regulatory burdens.
We appreciate this transition will take time, and that it must happen alongside financial and transitional support for farmers and the development of attractive and affordable alternatives for both farmers and consumers. There are, however, steps we can take now that will make a huge positive impact. These include banning factory farming, tougher laws, regulations and enforcement mechanisms, supporting farm livelihood transitions, supporting innovation in food tech, and promoting and incentivising more compassionate and healthy dietary choices.
Shifting to a plant-based economy is the single most impactful change to reduce animal suffering, whilst addressing many of our most urgent economic, social and environmental challenges.