FiBL Collaboration
"FiBL Collaboration" is a multilingual podcast channel produced by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL. In the podcast, we talk with experts from around the globe about the latest scientific findings from national and international research projects. We are happy to receive feedback or topic proposals via podcast@fibl.org. Homepage: https://www.fibl.org/en/infothek/podcast-en; Imprint: https://www.fibl.org/en/contact-site-information, © 2021 FiBL
FiBL Collaboration
Organic Animal Husbandry: A Role Model for Sustainable Livestock?
In this special episode of FiBL Collaboration, we highlight the upcoming IFOAM Animal Husbandry Alliance (IAHA) Conference at FiBL Switzerland (28 – 30 April 2026).
Accompanied by Dr. Florian Leiber and Rennie Eppenstein from FiBL's Department of Livestock Sciences, host Lauren Dietemann delves into how organic animal husbandry could provide solutions to the most pressing issues in today's food systems — and why it is crucial for the global community to unite and discuss its role right now.
The episode sets the stage for the 2026 conference, which aims to:
- create a global platform for discussing (organic) livestock systems
- bring together farmers, researchers, policymakers, and civil society actors
- explore whether organic animal husbandry can serve as a model for sustainable livestock
- address regional diversity, knowledge gaps, and practical solutions
- strengthen shared narratives around ecology, fairness, and animal welfare.
The conference invites participation from around the globe and welcomes diverse contributions in the form of essays to be presented orally and poster abstracts. This is not just a conference for researchers; the voices of farmers, practitioners, and grassroots organisations are also essential in shaping the agenda.
During their discussion, Florian and Rennie reflect on the complex challenge of balancing animal welfare, climate resilience and food production. They emphasise the need for context-specific, place-based solutions rather than one-size-fits-all approaches, and call for an honest reckoning with the uncomfortable yet essential question: How many animals should we keep, and under what conditions?
Interested in joining or contributing to the conference?
Be part of shaping the future of sustainable livestock. Visit www.iaha2026.org to find out more and to access the call for contributions.