A senior veterinary academic has called for increased co-operation, both geographically and between disciplines, to help address major health and environmental problems.

Aberystwyth University School of Veterinary Science head Darrell Abernethy delivered the challenge as he addressed a scientific summit held as part of the annual UN General Assembly in New York on 16 September.

He told the session: “It is international scientific collaboration and engagement like this that is needed if we are to address the pressing problems facing our planet.”

Plan of action

A new plan of action for “one health” was jointly published by the World Health Organization, World Organisation for Animal Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and United Nations Environment Programme two years ago.

But, despite that document, Prof Abernethy argued current structures and working approaches actually hamper efforts to meet the objectives of documents like that.

He said: “One health needs to become the new norm and we need a paradigm shift in our ways of working to achieve that.”

‘Much to offer’

He added: “During the COVID pandemic, for example, the veterinary sector had much to offer, but was largely ignored, despite huge experience in mass vaccination, disease diagnosis or population medicine.

“Similarly, conservation of endangered species is often seen as the preserve of ecologists and zoologists, but it has become increasingly clear that educationalists, behavioural scientists and economists are just as essential.

“Addressing the pressing challenges of our planet requires a breaking down of the traditional approach of government departments and educators, who unwittingly reinforce ‘we work alone’ silos, and an explicit commitment to multidisciplinary, collaborative working.”