Eurogroup for Animals, founded in 1980, is a pan-European animal protection organization. Its primary focus is to work in the interest of animals towards a society in which they are valued and respected as sentient beings. By driving comprehensive policy reform at the EU level, raising public awareness, and building capacity within member organizations, Eurogroup for Animals aims to address systemic animal welfare issues while fostering sustainable food systems. It seeks to create high welfare standards that not only improve the lives of animals but also support the health of ecosystems and align with Europe’s commitment to responsible and ethical governance.

For years, live animal transport has been a distressing issue, regularly making headlines when tragedies unfold: thousands of animals perishing at sea or suffering through grueling journeys in extreme temperatures. Improving transport conditions has long been a priority for animal welfare advocates, fueling pan-European campaigns and pushing for policy change. It’s the issue for which Eurogroup for Animals was created 45 years ago. Compared to the past, a new vision has now clearly emerged: the goal is to reduce and ultimately replace live animal transport with the trade of meat and carcasses. This shift represents a fundamental step toward ending the unnecessary suffering of animals transported across the EU and beyond.

By demonstrating economic viability and showcasing successful transitions, the organization seeks to accelerate this market shift through strategic initiatives. An international event will unite stakeholders to exchange knowledge, address challenges, and share best practices, with real- world case studies illustrating successful transitions. Roundtables and workshops will engage industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates, fostering trust and collaboration to reduce live transport across supply chains. As regulations evolve, Eurogroup for Animals will support supply chain actors with guidance and alternative solutions to ensure a smooth transition. Seizing the momentum of the current regulatory review, the organization will push for innovation and policy advancements to drive lasting change.

A critical opportunity is now on the horizon and it is the first time that Eurogroup for Animals is able to work exclusively on this matter, thanks to the support of Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation (NaEPF). The time for incremental change has passed. The current regulatory review provides a rare opportunity to create lasting transformation—one that not only spares countless animals from unnecessary suffering but also fosters a more sustainable and ethical trade system. Through this project, Eurogroup for Animals is poised to turn advocacy into action, forging a path toward a future where live animal transport becomes a thing of the past.

This project aims to leverage these opportunities by gathering critical data, crafting a shared vision for full replacement alongside stakeholders, keeping the movement aligned and informed, and encouraging policymakers to take bold steps toward meaningful change.

If successful, this initiative will unite key industry and policy figures, aligning them on the benefits of meat and carcass transport while driving coordinated market and policy efforts. Stronger EU legislation will follow, prioritizing this transition through a concrete action plan that includes funding for infrastructure and pilot projects. Awareness will expand among policymakers, industry leaders, and Eurogroup for Animals’ network, strengthening advocacy and national lobbying efforts. As momentum builds, more companies and countries will adopt meat and carcass transport, reducing reliance on live animal shipments and paving the way for a more humane and sustainable system.