WHY IT MATTERS
CAFOs affect everyone, including you. Human, environmental and animal health is at risk as well as the welfare of small farmers and the minority and low income communities that surround these operations. To understand how CAFOs cause these issues, be sure to browse the CAFO page first
THE ISSUES
Public Health
The excess manure produced in these facilities leads to pollution to the air and water through run off, disrepair of manure storage systems and the natural build up of waste. This pollution is what harms human health in a number of ways including antibiotic resistance, lung disease, cancer, food borne illness, and a decline in emotional well being.
Community and Social Justice
CAFOs are often built in rural areas which are often occupied by low income and minority groups. In addition to the hardships already experienced by these groups, CAFOs add the negative health consequences in addition to hurting local economies and property values. Hear stories from them first-hand.
Animal Health
Animals who are kept in confinement suffer physically and emotionally. They are forced to live in environments that are unnatural which increases their stress and leads to worsening health. This has lead to cruel practices to reduce disease and injury, including beak trimming and tail docking without pain killers. They are more susceptible to viruses due to these conditions and can increase the risk of novel virus development.
RESOURCES
AMERICAN PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION
The APHA's policy statement includes cited data that supports placing a moratorium on new and expanding CAFOs to protect public health. It reports the evidence on disproportionate impacts on communities of color, low income and overall community impact.
Civil Eats is a daily news source for critical thought about the American food system. This collection includes reports on policy as well as direct interviews with people living next to CAFOs
FOOD AND WATER WATCH
This report covers the issues of public, community, environmental and animal health as well as impacts on rural communities. It provides more information on vertical integration, climate change, and inefficiencies of CAFOs.
NATIONAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL
This report examines the lack of transparency between the CAFO industry and the Environmental Protection Agency and how this impacts communities, public and environmental health.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LOCAL BOARDS OF HEALTH
This report outlines various risks to communities that CAFOs produce. This report was created to assist local boards of health in protecting their communities.
PEW COMMISSION ON INDUSTRIAL FARM ANIMAL PRODUCTION
This report outlines areas of opportunity to improve the animal farming system to ensure a sustainable future for all. They focus on public health, the environment, rural communities and animal welfare.
Links several studies and reports on the negative impacts of CAFOs on the communities they reside in as well as resources for communities needing help. SRAP is dedicated to public education and assisting communities in supporting small and sustainable farms.