Global boom in livestock farming since 2006 is piling pressure on nature, report finds

The Guardian UK Thursday 02 July 2026, 05:00 UTC By Fiona Harvey Environment editor 1 min read

Key Points

Wildlife at risk as demand for cropland and water grows to feed 50% rise in farmed animals, campaign alliance saysThe number of mammals and poultry farmed worldwide has increased by half in the last two decades, research shows, and the amount of cropland used for feeding livestock has increased by about a quarter. These increases are putting rising pressure on natural systems, threatening wildlife and plant species and adding to the climate crisis.

Wildlife at risk as demand for cropland and water grows to feed 50% rise in farmed animals, campaign alliance says

The number of mammals and poultry farmed worldwide has increased by half in the last two decades, research shows, and the amount of cropland used for feeding livestock has increased by about a quarter.

These increases are putting rising pressure on natural systems, threatening wildlife and plant species and adding to the climate crisis.

Originally published by The Guardian UK Read original →

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