Water Use and Scarcity in Animal Agriculture
Source: FAIRR Initiative
Year: 2025
Type: Industry Research Report
The FAIRR Initiative’s research on water use and scarcity in animal agriculture examines the environmental and financial risks associated with water-intensive food production systems. The report highlights how livestock production contributes significantly to global water demand and increasing water stress.
Animal agriculture requires large volumes of water for feed production, animal hydration, and processing. These combined demands make it one of the most resource-intensive sectors within the global food system. The report emphasizes that this high level of water use creates vulnerabilities in regions already facing water scarcity.
In addition to direct water consumption, the report highlights the role of animal agriculture in contributing to water pollution. Runoff from fertilizers, manure, and agricultural chemicals can degrade water quality, impacting ecosystems and reducing the availability of clean freshwater for human use.
The FAIRR Initiative also explores the financial implications of water risk, noting that companies reliant on water-intensive supply chains may face increasing regulatory, operational, and reputational challenges. As water scarcity becomes more pronounced, businesses are under growing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices.
The report underscores the importance of shifting toward more efficient and resilient food systems. Reducing reliance on resource-intensive animal products and increasing the role of plant-based foods can help mitigate water-related risks.
For The Ark of Compassion, this research highlights a key insight: water scarcity is not only an environmental issue but also an economic and systemic challenge, and dietary patterns play a critical role in shaping sustainable outcomes.
