Indigenous elders and farmers from the Northern Territory have invited veterinarians to sit down, listen and experience first-hand the impacts of climate change on their lives and those of animals on country. The broad impacts of climate change are widely known but the small, important changes are less commonly documented.
This week, Vets for Climate Action founder, veterinarian and board director Dr Jeannet Kessels will be traversing one of the most climate vulnerable places on earth, visiting Borroloola, Elliott, Katherine, Kakadu and Litchfield, areas already experiencing extreme heat days, desertification, wildfires, cyclones and flood vulnerability. Elders will share the changes they are observing, providing opportunities for shared learnings between science-based veterinarians and the insightful lived experience of those who have grown up on country.
Dr Kessels will also meet with veterinarians and farmers to hear their stories and experiences, and better understand positive sustainability practices currently in use.
These visits will be recorded by former BBC correspondent Nik Wood and photographer Grace Kessels.
Climate change impacts the health and welfare of animals; livestock, wildlife and companion animals. It affects biosecurity, global food supply, biodiversity and extinction. The relationship between animal and human health is well understood through the One Health paradigm. Each of these sits within the stable of veterinary responsibility.
Vets for Climate Action is the first organisation to highlight the role of veterinarians in climate advocacy, and is gaining traction globally. After hosting World Veterinary Association (WVA) with immediate past president Dr Raphael Laguens earlier this year, specifically to discuss global veterinary climate action, Dr Kessels presented to the heads of veterinary associations from across the world at the WVA General Assembly in Cape Town.
Based on this week's filming, a broader documentary is anticipated for 2025, where veterinary leaders worldwide will be invited to the Northern Territory, to again sit down and listen, and to personally experience these changes, providing understanding and inspiration to strategise the profession's global response.
About Vets for Climate Action
Vets for Climate Action represents concerned vets, vet nurses, vet receptionists, vet techs, animal carers, pet owners and animal lovers who want strong and immediate action on climate. We promote sustainable veterinary care. We inspire and educate within and beyond our own profession. We protect biodiversity and recognise that the health of people, animals and the environment are interconnected in line with the One Health concept. We advocate for strong leadership and action on climate change.
