In 2015, Ontario Pork launched its inaugural social responsibility report, An Era of Change and Accountability, blazing a trail for agriculture groups seeking to build and maintain public trust in a transparent and accountable manner.
In 2018, we took the time to re-examine and re-assess our social responsibility commitments. Where had we succeeded? Where was there more work to be done? Where have priorities shifted, in an industry marked by constant change?
Throughout 2019, we sought feedback from farmers, industry stakeholders and consumers to ensure the commitments made today are relevant, achievable and meaningful.
The result is ONTARIO PORK: BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW, our streamlined social responsibility initiative with clear, succinct and measurable goals in four priority areas:
We invite you to join Ontario’s pork farmers in their commitment to build a better tomorrow for all.
Successful Farming Operations
Successful farming operations are fostered by embracing continuous improvement and committing to ongoing education. The guiding principles of responsible farm management include compliance with regulations, participation in the industry’s voluntary standards and initiatives, as well as investment in on-farm innovation.
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Farm families, farm workers, rural communities and the Ontario economy all depend on the financial success, economic contribution and long-term viability of pork farms. Ontario’s pork industry prioritizes the safety of its animals, property and people. From one generation to the next, farmers are committed to building successful, safe, sustainable operations by investing in people, research and innovation. It is our responsibility to ensure ongoing efforts in this area bring meaningful and measurable results to advance the swine industry.
Healthy Animals and Safe Food
Healthy animals, along with food safety and quality, are Ontario Pork’s top priorities. Our guiding principles in this area include adoption of and compliance with recognized standards regarding animal care, traceability and antibiotic use.
Ontario’s pork farmers are committed to internationally-recognized high standards of animal care and farm practices, based on science, education and animal husbandry best practices. The industry invests heavily in research and innovation to improve animal care, food quality and safety. While acknowledging the wide spectrum of views on the topic of animal care, there is one thing everyone can agree on: a healthy herd benefits all.
Sustainable Environment
Ontario’s pork farmers are committed to improving the environment on farm, as measured by on-farm practices that positively impact water and soil quality. Our guiding principles include preservation of ecosystems and resources.
Farmers are environmental leaders, actively working to improve the environment. Clean water and healthy soil are key to the long-term success of individual farmers and the industry. From a producer’s perspective, doing what’s right for the environment is more than just good business. It’s embedded in our DNA because the farm is our family’s home and the land is our livelihood.
Strong Communities and People
Ontario Pork is dedicated to building stronger connections between food and farming through outreach and education, our commitment to worker well-being and by empowering farm leaders of tomorrow. Our guiding principles include participation in dialogue with local stakeholders, contribution to the local economy and ensuring safe working environments.
Farmers help build strong communities, providing jobs, opportunities for youth, education and leadership. Classroom and community outreach work helps ensure that Ontarians stay connected to where their food is from. Pork farmers are also committed to helping address food security in Ontario. Connecting with consumers and engaging in dialogue with local stakeholders gives pork farmers a platform to answer questions, respond to concerns and provide context about the challenges and opportunities that farming life presents each day.
2018 Social Responsibility Report
2017 Social Responsibility Progress Update
2015 Social Responsibility Report
2015 Social Responsibility Summary
Social Responsibility Videos