Deep-dive: Screwworm Free Future

The New World Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is the leading cause of myasis in Latin America - an agonizing condition in which animals are consumed alive by maggots - and presents a major animal welfare challenge. ​Recent technological advances have introduced new control methods and the possibility of eradicating C. hominivorax entirely. Screwworm Free Future is a brand new organization that aims to tackle this welfare challenge by lobbying governments and conducting technical and policy research. ​The event will begin with a presentation by Lukas Robertson exploring the scientific and ethical considerations of eradication. This will be followed by a group discussion on how we can address key policy and technical challenges, whilst taking broader wild animal welfare considerations into account. ​Join for an engaging session where to learn about this highly neglected issue and debate important ideas connected with animal welfare, agriculture, policy making and effective altruism in general.