Food security remains a growing challenge, alongside other global emergencies like climate change, environmental degradation, and biodiversity loss. Whilst farming is often blamed for negative environmental impacts, it is also hailed as a potential mitigator to rising greenhouse gases (GHGs) and for increasing habitat restoration. Though the objectives of food security and environmental health can often be at odds with each other, we cannot stop producing food, so we must find ways to do it better. Moreover, farmers are on the front line of the impacts of climate change (CC) and environmental degradation, making it an increasingly difficult livelihood. CC is stressing farms in new ways, including livestock health and productivity. As the impacts of CC unfold, understanding how these are affecting farming and food production is important.

Grazing livestock are often criticised for their contribution to GHGs, water use, and habitat loss. However, they form an important component of diets and livelihoods in many parts of the world. Under the right practices, they can have a positive environmental impact, such as carbon sequestration, nutrient recycling, and as part of rewilding and agroforestry projects. Grazing livestock can also potentially generate co-benefits, e.g. social and financial support to rural communities, and improved food security. Furthermore, regenerative farming is increasingly being associated with increased farmer wellbeing and satisfaction.

This project falls under a broad topic with multiple options for focus and specialisation. It invites students interested in interdisciplinary research and mixed methods. The supervisory team is made up of 3 academics based at Bristol Veterinary School (BVS).