Transatlantic collaboration enters fourth year to focus on swine and poultry industries

A transatlantic collaboration, the U.S.-German Forum on the Future of Agriculture, led by Germany’s Aspen Institute together with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, has entered its fourth year to focus on the health and wellbeing of the swine and poultry industries in the context of a more sustainable agricultural future. 

The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) Office of International Programs and the European Union Center help coordinate the program that brings together stakeholders from the U.S. and Germany for a year-long schedule of virtual and in-person meetings, and culminates in a published policy document.

Courtney Archer, assistant professor of animal behavior and welfare in the Department of Animal Sciences is representing ACES in this year’s cohort. Archer’s work focuses on the physiological mechanisms that underpin animal health, welfare, and productivity in commercial swine systems. 

“I already collaborate closely with producers, veterinarians, and industry partners to translate research into applicable tools for the field, so I’m thrilled to be a part of this project to make more connections and work with others on policy recommendations,” says Archer. 

Last year’s project resulted in recommendations on land-use planning co-authored by ACES distinguished professor of environmental economics professor Madhu Khanna. 

“By facilitating a comparative dialogue between U.S. agriculturalists and researchers and their German counterparts, participants will learn from the respective strengths and innovations on both sides. This will in turn hopefully foster new lines of research inquiry, the adoption of agricultural best practices, and policy innovations in both countries,” says Lauren Karplus, associate director for ACES International Programs who is supporting the project from the ACES side along with graduate student Hannah Wilwerth.