Breeding for a sustainable future: A glimpse at Aviagen’s 2023 Sustainability Report
Our 2023 Sustainability Report showcases the steps we’ve taken to support a more sustainable future – for poultry producers, for communities around the world, and for the planet we all share.
Sustainability isn’t just a target – it guides how we innovate, make decisions, and support the sector each day.
The report highlights the progress we’re making across the three sustainability pillars: Environmental, Economic, and Social. From breeding innovations to hands-on projects in local communities. This report brings to life how we are breeding sustainability through the efficiency of our birds, our choices, and our investment in the future.
Breeding innovation
Innovation is what drives our balanced breeding program forward. For decades, we’ve focused on finding better ways to support animal welfare and sustainability, while delivering even greater value for our customers. That means constantly developing and applying new tools and technologies – all aimed at helping our chicks thrive and our producers succeed. Balanced breeding is the foundation of everything we do. Our goal is to make poultry farming more sustainable with healthier and more robust birds, while also keeping it environmentally responsible and financially viable for the people who rely on it.
Breeding sustainability: Feeding the future, responsibly
Efficiency of feed utilization is the biggest contributor to reducing the environmental impact in poultry meat production. Our birds are selected for improved feed efficiency, benefiting the industry as a whole by lowering emissions, conserving resources, and helping producers reduce their environmental footprint.
Thanks to decades of consistent progress in selecting for feed efficiency, the carbon footprint of broiler production has fallen by 55% since 1970 – and is projected to decrease by another 10% by 2030. This ongoing improvement contributes to a food system that is sustainable not only for the environment, but also for farmers and the wider economy.
Sustainability and animal welfare go hand in hand. Healthier birds are naturally more efficient, so we concentrate on qualities like livability, disease resistance and feed conversion. Each pedigree bird is measured against more than 40 traits – with over a third of selection focus related directly to welfare. This careful balance helps reduce environmental impact while supporting bird health and the economic success of poultry producers, which strengthens their ability to put food on the tables of their local families.
Breeding success together
Sustainability also means working together. Through close collaboration, open communication, and a spirit of cooperation, we’re building strong relationships across the entire poultry value chain – from farmers and feed suppliers to distributors and retailers.
By teaming up with our customers and industry associates, we are helping to strengthen the security of supply and support an uninterrupted flow of healthy, affordable chicken meat to communities around the world – today and into the future.
Continuing the journey
As we look to the future, our commitment to sustainability remains strong. Whether through breeding goals or everyday practices, we will continue to focus on making a positive impact – for our chickens, our customers and the global communities they serve, and the planet.
We invite you to explore our full interactive 2023 Sustainability Report.