First Digital Sustainability Congress a Great Success

On July 16th, 2025, the first digital FECAVA Congress on Sustainability in Veterinary Medicine took place. This landmark event marked an important milestone in FECAVA’s ongoing commitment to promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable practices within the veterinary profession.

The topic of sustainability has been actively pursued within FECAVA for several years by a dedicated Working Group. This group consists of eight veterinarians from different European countries, working together across borders to develop strategies and educational initiatives around the concept of “Green Veterinary Medicine.” Their efforts are generously supported by Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

Following an initial orientation phase, which included a comprehensive survey of veterinary practices to assess the current status and potential for sustainable measures, the group created a wide range of informative infographics. These visuals addressed topics such as energy consumption, waste management, and eco-friendly materials, and served as a foundation for deeper discussions within the profession.

The first digital sustainability congress marked a significant highlight of the group’s efforts. In collaboration with the bvvd (Federal Association of Veterinary Medicine Students in Germany) and the organization VetsforLife, a diverse and informative online program was developed. The four-hour live stream covered a wide array of topics, ranging from practical tips for sustainable practice management, to eco-conscious use of inhalation anesthetics, the environmental impact of antibiotic use, sustainable pet nutrition, and environmentally friendly parasite control methods in settings such as zoos and wildlife parks.

The event received an impressive response, with over 200 participants registering from across Europe. Attendees represented a wide range of age groups and professional backgrounds — from veterinary students to experienced clinic owners — demonstrating that the topic of sustainability is gaining traction across all generations within the veterinary field.

FECAVA and its partners, bvvd and VetsforLife, are very pleased with the outcome of the congress. The success of this inaugural event will serve as a catalyst for future initiatives. Planned follow-ups include further events, workshops, and the development of additional educational materials, all aimed at deepening awareness and promoting sustainable practices in veterinary medicine.

One thing is certain: sustainability is not a passing trend, but a long-term responsibility — also in veterinary medicine.

 

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