Demonstration for Structured Flooring Solutions for Pigs

On April 22, 2025, a demonstration is set to take place outside the Austrian Parliament, showcasing a controversial flooring solution for pig farming. The event is organized by the Association Against Factory Farming (VGT), aiming to highlight the inadequacies of what is termed a 'structured' full slatted floor.

The demonstration will illustrate how easily rubber strips can be attached to a third of the flooring area, effectively transforming an 'unstructured' floor into what is labeled a 'structured' one. This alteration is said to adhere to recent regulations that the VGT argues do not significantly improve the welfare of the pigs.

According to VGT, the full slatted floor system has been criticized and banned by certain factions, including the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) and the pig farming industry, due to animal welfare concerns. However, the legislation only explicitly prohibits 'unstructured' variants of these systems, allowing for the existence of 'structured' versions, which the VGT claims fails to address the fundamental issues faced by the animals.

Critics of the 'structured' variant point out that it still involves a concrete surface devoid of bedding material, offering little comfort or relief for the pigs. The VGT argues that the supposed improvements are minimal and do not provide any substantial benefit to the animals, who continue to endure harsh living conditions.

The demonstration aims not only to bring attention to these issues but also to advocate for more humane alternatives in pig farming practices. The VGT plans to demonstrate how quickly and easily the transition from an 'unstructured' to a 'structured' floor can be made, revealing the superficial nature of the changes.

The event will take place from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Dr.-Karl-Renner-Ring 3, 1010 Vienna, and is open to the public. The VGT encourages all interested parties to attend and witness firsthand the simplicity of the modifications.