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Tuesday, February 11, 2025
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Shropshire residents urged to shape animal futures in RSPCA’s Big Conversation

Residents of Shropshire have a unique opportunity to shape the future of animal welfare in the county by participating in the RSPCA’s Big Conversation. However, time is of the essence, as the first phase of the consultation, titled “Animal Futures,” closes on February 28th.

The RSPCA is aiming for this to be their largest-ever discussion about animals, inviting individuals to join an online platform and share their views on a range of critical topics. These include the ethical use of animals in society, the impact of emerging technologies, the future of farmed animals and food systems, and the preservation of wildlife.

Experts at the animal welfare charity believe that animal welfare is at a critical juncture. Challenges such as climate change, the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence, and the intensification of farming practices are raising complex questions about the role of animals in our world.

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The RSPCA emphasizes that the decisions made today will significantly impact the lives of animals for generations to come. Last year, they engaged the public with an interactive game exploring various future scenarios for animals, laying the groundwork for this broader conversation.

Now, through “The Big Conversation,” participants can directly contribute their perspectives on the kind of world they envision for both animals and humans. Key discussion points are expected to include the ethical implications of AI, the rise of meat alternatives like lab-grown meat, and the importance of access to nature.

“The future for animals in Shropshire is in the hands of people across the county,” said Gemma Hope, the RSPCA’s Assistant Director of Policy, Advocacy, and Evidence. “Animals currently face some huge challenges, and the decisions we take now will influence the lives animals enjoy in the future and whether they will live better lives or suffer worse welfare.”

Hope stressed the importance of public participation: “That’s why we are launching ‘Animal Futures: The Big Conversation,’ which we hope will be the biggest ever conversation about animals – and is a real unique opportunity for people to be heard. This is everyone’s chance to have a say on the world they want to see for animals and humans, and explore how we can create it together.”

The consultation comes on the heels of a recent RSPCA poll that revealed some surprising trends. Nationally, 26% of respondents would consider adding a robot pet to their family, a number that rises to 42% among 25-34-year-olds. In the West Midlands, the interest in robot pets is even higher, at 34%. These findings raise important questions about the evolving role of pets in society.

“Technology is already changing the way we see and treat animals, from robot pets, to gene editing, and the role of AI in everything from farming to communication with animals,” Hope explained. “We know the role robot pets play in our society can really divide opinion. What’s clear is the market for these robots is growing fast, so this is one of many topics we look forward to hearing from people in Shropshire as part of The Big Conversation. It’s so important people sign up, and have their say on animals’ futures.”

The initial phase of “The Big Conversation” runs until February 28th. A second phase, offering further opportunities to contribute, will take place between March 17th and April 6th. Additionally, the RSPCA will launch its “Animal Futures” podcast, hosted by broadcaster and journalist Kate Quilton, on February 5th.

Shropshire residents can join “Animal Futures: The Big Conversation” by visiting the RSPCA website.

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