Sustainable livestock farming and animal welfare

E. Jeevana Sai*1, Rajeev*, M. Siyon Kumari*2

Department of Agronomy Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-144411, Punjab, India
Corresponding Email. [email protected]
Phone (Office):01824-517222, Mobile Number:8309982772 Mail:[email protected]

Abstract
For a country to have sustained development, hunger and poverty must be eliminated. Food
security is largely dependent on the agriculture and animal industries. The ability to raise and
use domesticated animals is crucial to the survival of many low-income people. Implementing
sustainable livestock systems is crucial for protecting these ways of life. India's agricultural
economy relies heavily on the livestock industry, which provides not only food but also skins,
fiber, fertilizer, and fuel, among many other products. Numerous resource farmers depend on
animal ownership to varying degrees of agricultural sustainability and economic stability, and
livestock play a vital part in the social and cultural fabric of these communities. For small farm
families, livestock revenue amounted to 16 percent of total income, while for rural households
as a whole, it accounted for 14 percent. About 66% of the world's rural population relies on
livestock for their survival. About 25.6% of all agricultural production comes from the cattle
industry, which accounts for 4.11 percent of GDP growth. As a result, the livestock sector may
take advantage of the transitions associated with growth to make strides toward a more
sustainable type of development and, ultimately, to make a more significant contribution to
agricultural practices and human eating patterns (Jeyapriya, 2022).
Keywords: Livestock; Agriculture; Sustainable; Livelihood; Welfare
Result: This section presents research that have conducted a comparative analysis of
production metrics at the animal level, specifically focusing on organic and conventional
systems for dairy cattle, beef cattle, pigs, broilers, and laying hens. The productivity of all
organic livestock types examined, including dairy cattle, beef cattle, pigs, broilers, and laying
hens, was typically shown to be lower in comparison to conventional systems. In all
experiments, it was consistently shown that milk production in organic systems was lower
when compared to conventional systems. Based on a comparative analysis of the two systems,
it can be inferred that the productivity of several organic livestock categories, including dairy
cattle, beef cattle, pigs, broilers, and laying hens, had a usually worse performance when
compared to their conventional counterparts.
Conclusion: Sustainable livestock management is intricately linked to the dynamics of energy
flow. The implementation of sustainable practices in livestock farming has the potential to
enhance resource efficiency, bolster resilience, and uphold the social responsibility of the
agriculture and food system. Animal welfare improvements focused on both raising the
minimum standard as a ‘bottom line’ and promoting higher welfare are both important actions
for welfare in a sustainable system.
Background
According to the United Nations (2013), it is projected that the global population will reach 9.6
billion by the year 2050, with the majority of this growth occurring in developing nations.
According to Alexandratos and Bruinsma (2012), the process of urbanisation is expected to
persist at an accelerated rate, resulting in a doubling of income levels compared to the present.
According to the estimations made by Alexandratos and Bruinsma (2012), the global demand
for food is projected to experience an annual growth rate of 1.1% from the years 2005-2007 to
2050. It is anticipated that during this time frame, there will be a projected annual increase in
global meat demand of 1.3%, as well as a projected annual increase in demand for milk and
dairy products of 1.1%. In contrast to the demand observed in 2005/07, projections indicate
that the demand for meat in 2050 is anticipated to increase by approximately 75%, while the
demand for milk and dairy products is projected to rise by 60%. The Role of Livestock in the
Indian Economy According to Pramod (2022), the livestock industry experienced a compound
annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9% from 2014-15 to 2020-21, when adjusted for inflation.
Additionally, its proportionate contribution to the overall gross value added (GVA) of the
agricultural sector, when adjusted for inflation, rose from 24.3% in 2014-15 to 30.1% in 2020-
21. In addition to their economic advantages, such as generating income and ensuring a
consistent food supply and financial stability for households, livestock also contribute to rural
employment opportunities. Furthermore, they serve as a form of insurance for farmers in times
of crop failures. Additionally, the quantity of livestock owned by a farmer plays a significant
role in determining their social standing within the community. Dairy holds the position of
being the most significant agricultural commodity in India. The dairy industry makes a
significant contribution of 5% to the overall national economy, while also serving as a direct
source of employment for approximately 80 million individuals engaged in dairy farming. The
livestock industry is essential to fighting poverty, improving food security, and boosting
agricultural development. Livestock accounts for 40% of global agricultural output, according
to the FAO. Additionally, it provides livelihood, food, and nutrition security for 1.3 billion
people. There is also a chance to improve livestock sector practices to improve sustainability,
equity, and animal and human health.
The concept of sustainable livestock production and agricultural
production necessitates the consideration of the energy flow between the soil, plants, and
livestock as an interconnected cycle. The analysis of sustainability in livestock production
systems necessitates the examination of indicators encompassing ecological adaptability,
economic viability, and energetic efficiency within the production system. The analysis of the
sustainability of intensive and extensive livestock production systems can be conducted using
various tools, including life cycle assessment (LCA) and mater ial and energy flow analysis. It
is imperative to conduct an analysis of the environmental footprint associated with each
production system.
These efforts aim to safeguard both nutrition and food security. The
key factors that contribute to sustainability include water conservation, soil conservation, soil
nutrient management, land use planning, energy recycling systems, and the conservation of
biodiversity. Livestock farming encompasses a multitude of advantageous facets, including the
advancement of the global agricultural economy, the improvement of rural livelihoods, the
empowerment of rural women, the promotion of sustainable rangeland management, the
preservation of domestic animal species, and the enhancement of soil fertility and nutrient
cycling. According to the report published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),
the extent of grazing land surpasses that of cropping land. Approximately 60% of the total
agricultural land is occupied by grazing land, which provides sustenance for a population of
360 million cattle as well as 600 million sheep and goats. Globally, grazing animals contribute
to the production of approximately 10% of beef meat and 30% of sheep and goat meat.
Moreover, sustainable livestock farming not only preserves arable land but also plays a crucial
role in maintaining a balanced nitrogen and phosphorus cycle (Pramod, 2022).

In a sustainable livestock farming system, feed conversion efficiency

can be assessed. Quantifying milk, meat, and other derived products per animal feed unit is a
basic biological process. Novel feed-to-milk or meat energy conversion technologies may
improve efficiency. Feed provides energy, which livestock convert into meat, milk, and fiber.
An organism uses energy for digestion, metabolism, growth, and immune system function.
Once the body's nutritional needs are met, energy is directed to milk or fiber production.
Animal products are high in energy-dense proteins and essential nutrients like vitamin B12,
vitamin D, and zinc. To boost production and food security, livestock production is becoming
more sustainable and intensive. About 30-40% of global cereal production is for animal feed.

The implementation of Precision Livestock Farming is necessary in

order to enhance the biological and production efficiency of livestock farming, thereby
augmenting its profitability. Precision livestock farming (PLF) is a comprehensive approach to
livestock production that revolves around the strategic management and marketing of animals
based on their individual merit. In the realm of livestock production and management, the focus
lies primarily on the collective management and care of animals, despite the presence of notable
variations in performance among individual animals.. Feed is a significant component in
livestock farming, accounting for a range of 58% to 70% of the total input cost. Nevertheless,
the implementation of a precision grazing and feeding management regime has the potential to
mitigate the issue of high input costs. In a similar vein, the expenditure on labor accounts for
approximately 18-25% of the total input cost in the agricultural sector, and can be mitigated
through the implementation of efficient managerial practices and the adoption of technological
advancements.

Searchinger et al., (2013) identified three distinct categories of

solutions aimed at ensuring the sustainable provision of food for the projected larger,
increasingly urbanized, and wealthier global population by the year 2050. There are three main
categories of solutions that can address the issue of food consumption and its associated
challenges. Firstly, there are solutions aimed at reducing the growth in food consumption.
These solutions encompass various strategies, such as minimizing food waste, combating
obesity, and curbing excessive consumption. Secondly, there are solutions focused on
increasing food production within the constraints of existing agricultural land. These solutions
involve measures like enhancing crop yield and maximizing the productivity of available land.
Lastly, there are solutions aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of food production.
These solutions involve adopting practices that optimize the use of resources and minimize
inputs, thereby reducing the overall ecological footprint of food production. There exists a
diverse range of livestock production systems. One widely recognized and extensively
researched categorization is the distinction between organic and conventional systems. Various
studies have conducted comparisons between conventional and organic livestock production
systems with regards to sustainability-related aspects. These aspects include the environment,
animal welfare, economics, and human safety and health. For instance, Thomassen et al.,
(2008) examined the environmental implications, Hovi et al., (2003) focused on animal
welfare, McBride and Greene (2009) and O'Hara and Parsons (2013) explored the economic
dimensions, while Smith-Spangler et al., (2012) investigated the impact on human safety and
health. The primary objective of this study was to examine sustainability indicators pertaining
to the economy, productivity, environment, animal welfare, and public health in relation to the
prevalent farm animal species.

Livestock Sector Statistics of India

First Total Livestock Population, Milk
Production, Cattle Population, Buffalo
Population, Cara beef Production, Goat Milk
Production, Total Bovine Population
Second Goat Population, Bristle Production (a pig
industry by-product), Fish Production
Third Sheep Production, Egg Production
Fourth Chicken Production
Fifth Poultry Meat Production, Poultry
Production, Meat production
Eight Duck Production
Ninth Camel Population, Wool Production

20th Livestock Census:

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying's Department of Animal Husbandry
& Dairying recognizes the importance of livestock data collection and accuracy. This is because
livestock are vital to the rural economy. The 20th Livestock Census began in October 2018.
The census was done in rural and urban areas. The site counted cattle, buffalo, yak, sheep, goat,
pig, horse, pony, mule, donkey, camel, dog, rabbit, and elephant. Fowl, duck, and other poultry
birds were also found in households and non-household enterprises. A breed-specific livestock
and poultry count mechanism is another important feature of the 20th Livestock Census. Nearly
660,000 villages and 89,000 urban wards nationwide participated in the 20th Livestock Census,
which included over 270 million households and non-households.
Current status of registered breed in India
The present condition of indigenous livestock, poultry, and canine breeds, which have been
characterized and registered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau
of Animal Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBAGR) in Karnal, India, amounts to a total of 212
breeds (NBAGR, 2022).
Species Number of breeds registered
Cattle 53
Sheep 44
Goat 37
Buffalo 20
Chicken 19
Pig 13
Camel 9
Horse 7
Donkey 3
Dog 3
Duck 2
Yak 1
Geeses 1
Table-1: Registered breeds of India as per ICAR-NBAGR, Karnal
The present response provides an overview of the livestock population in India, categorized by
species, as well as the total poultry population, as reported in the 20th Livestock Census Report
(DAHD, 2019).

Category Population Population Population % growth

(In million) (In million) (In million)
2007 2012 2019
Cattle 199.08 190.9 193.46 1.34
Buffalo 105.34 108.7 109.85 1.06
Sheep 71.56 65.07 74.26 14.13
Goat 140.54 135.17 148.88 10.14
Pig 11.13 10.29 90.6 -12.03
Horse 0.61 0.62 0.34 -45.22
Donkey 0.44 0.32 0.12 -61.23
Camel 0.52 0.4 0.25 -37.05
Total Livestock 529.22 511.47 617.76 4.82
Total poultry 648.9 729.21 851.81 16.81
Table-2: Total livestock population and total poultry population of India, as per the 20th
Livestock Census Report (DAHD, 2019).
 TO TAL LIVES TO CK PO PULATIO N AND TO TAL
PO ULTRY PO PULATIO N O F INDIA
Population (In million) 2007 Population (In million) 2012 Population (In million) 2019 % growth

851.81
729.21
617.76

648.9
529.22
511.47
199.08
193.46

148.88
140.54
135.17
190.9

109.85
105.34
108.7

74.26
71.56
65.07

90.6

16.81
14.13

11.13
10.14

10.29

4.82
1.34

1.06

0.44
0.61
0.62

0.12

0.52
0.34

0.32

0.25
0.4
-12.03

-37.05
-45.22

-61.23
Defining conventional and organic production systems

This study aimed to characterize conventional production systems, which are commonly
employed by the majority of farms. These systems incorporate various technologies to enhance
productivity, including the utilization of high-yielding breeds, modern breeding and feeding
techniques, advanced medication and veterinary health products, machinery and equipment, as
well as the application of artificial fertilizers and pesticides.

According to the Codex Alimentarius Commission (2007), organic agriculture is characterized

as a comprehensive approach to managing production that aims to support and improve the
health of agroecosystems, encompassing aspects such as biodiversity, biological cycles, and
soil biological activity. The approach places emphasis on the utilization of management
practices that prioritize the incorporation of off-farm inputs, while also considering the need
for regionally tailored systems that are adapted to local conditions. The achievement of this
objective is facilitated by employing cultural, biological, and mechanical approaches,
whenever feasible, to fulfill particular functions within the system, rather than relying on
synthetic materials.
1.0 Demarcation of sustainability
According to Lebacq et al., (2013), it is asserted that sustainable livestock systems ought to
possess economic viability for farmers, environmental friendliness, and social acceptability.
The authors further delineate three fundamental pillars of sustainability, namely economic
sustainability, environmental sustainability, and social sustainability. The present study
employed the three sustainability pillars as delineated by Lebacq et al., (2013) as a foundational
framework. Moreover, Lebacq et al., (2013) conducted an extensive analysis to identify various
subjects and metrics encompassed within the pillar of economic, environmental, and social
sustainability.
1.1 Economic sustainability pillar:
Within the context of the economic sustainability pillar, we employed indicators such as farm
income, risk, and employability to quantitatively assess the performance of the system.
1.1.1 Economy:
Farm income, risk, and employment were some of the economic variables selected. These were
seen as important markers of a company's financial health, farmers' propensity to adopt a
certain agricultural method, and the encouragement of local economic prosperity. There was
also a difference made between studies that measured whole-farm income (revenues minus all
expenses excluding farm labor) and those that measured gross margin (revenues minus variable
costs).
1.1.2 Productivity:
Productivity can be described as the quantitative measure of output generated by an animal,
encompassing various factors such as milk and egg yield, body weight gain, protein and fat
content, offspring count, and the ratio of input to output, known as the feed conversion ratio.
1.2 Environmental sustainability pillar:
In the context of the environment, we employed indicators to quantify the extent to which
livestock production contributes to global warming through the emission of greenhouse gases.
Additionally, we assessed its impact on eutrophication, acidification, energy consumption, and
land utilization.
1.3 Social sustainability pillar:
Within the context of the social sustainability pillar, indicators were employed to assess and
monitor the aspects of animal welfare and public health.
1.3.1 Animal welfare:
We used indicators to quantify the effects of different livestock production systems on a range
of factors related to animal welfare, including aggression and destructive behavior, stress
sensitivity, overall resilience, lameness and leg health, helminth infections, diseases, and
mortality rates. The effectiveness of antibiotic therapy in animals may be impacted by the
prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in the animals' environments, which in turn affects
animal welfare.
1.3.2 Public health:
We used indicators to assess a range of elements relevant to public health, such as zoonotic
microbiological dangers, antibiotic resistance, chemical hazards, fine dust, and a few
potentially helpful features of food. When people come into touch with animals or ingest
contaminated items, they risk being exposed to zoonotic microbiological risks and poisonous
chemicals. Antimicrobial resistance in farm-associated microorganisms has been linked to the
use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals. Contact with these animals or their
surroundings, as well as consumption of goods produced from these species, may expose
humans to this resistance (Van den Bogaard and Stobberingh, 2000; Marshall and Levy, 2011).
Several different chemical components found in organochlorine pesticides have been linked to
the onset of illnesses such breast cancer (Hoyer et al., 1998). The introduction of fine dust was
inspired by concerns for the health of those who work directly with animals.
Difference between Conventional animal production compared to organic system and
Organic animal production compared to conventional system
Conventional animal production Organic animal production compared to
compared to organic system conventional system
Higher animal productivity Higher farm gate price
More efficient feed conversion ratio Lower feed conversion ratio
Lower AP and lower EP per unit of product Lower AP and EP per unit of land
Lower risk of parasitic infections Antibiotic resistance in bacteria isolated
from the farms' environment, animals or
animal products
Lower or equal level of microbial Lower levels of antimicrobial resistance
contamination
Lower feed prices Lower building costs per animal
Lower land use Higher activity levels and better leg health
Lower labour needs to produce an animal Lower building costs per animal
Lower level of income risk per animal Higher income per animal or full-time
employee
Higher output (in kg product) per animal per Lower output (in kg product) per animal per
time unit time unit
Better reproductive performance Lower impact on local biodiversity and fossil
phosphorus depletion per unit of product
 Lower acidification and eutrophication Lower eutrophication and acidification
potential per unit of product potential per unit of land

Why sustainable livestock?

The preservation of native cattle breeds that possess resilience and adaptability to elevated
temperatures has been gaining traction in response to the escalating manifestation of global
warming in India.
 Indigenous cattle breeds in India exhibit significant genetic diversity, which contributes
to their enhanced resilience against local challenges such as parasites, diseases, and
high temperatures.
 Climate change is anticipated to have several adverse effects on animal welfare. These
include a decrease in available fodder for animals, limited access to clean water sources,
an elevated risk of parasitic diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, flies, and lice, reduced
fertility rates, and a decline in milk production.
 It is projected that the global demand for animal products will increase fourfold by the
year 2050, primarily driven by anticipated growth in population, income levels, and
urbanization.
Sustainable livestock sector
The livestock consists of various farming systems
1. Dairy farming
2. Poultry farming
3. Pig farming
4. Sheep farming
5. Goat farming
6. Rabbit farming
There are several aspects to consider about sustainable livestock production
Biosecurity:
1. Increased contact between animals can facilitate the transmission of diseases.
2. Pathogens have the ability to traverse international boundaries, there by disseminating
among individuals and causing infection within the manufacturing system.
3. The management of pathogens involves the utilization of biocides; however, it is
imperative to exercise caution in order to avert any potential environmental
contamination or the contamination of meat, milk, or other food sources.
Health management:
1. The susceptibility of farm animals to illnesses primarily stems from factors such as
transportation and dietary alterations.
2. The utilization of antibiotics for the purpose of infection treatment fosters the
development of resistance, thereby posing a formidable obstacle in effectively
managing the illness.
3. The utilization of vaccines leads to a reduction in antibiotic usage, although their
efficacy is rendered ineffective in cases where the immune system of the animal is
compromised.

Feeding strategies:
1. Efficient feeding practices are necessary to enhance the nutritional status of animals
while concurrently mitigating the release of infections and toxic by-products.
2. It is recommended to adopt a feeding approach that prioritizes balanced nutrition, as
this has been shown to enhance both production and immunity.

Waste management:
1. The augmentation of cattle density is necessary to enhance productivity; nevertheless,
this concomitantly elevates the susceptibility to diseases.
2. Improper waste management has the potential to contaminate the land, water, and
feed.
3. Therefore, it is imperative to effectively manage animal manure in order to minimize
microbial contamination within the production system.
Global challenges in sustainable livestock production
Environmental challenges
1. The primary environmental concerns encompass the effective administration of climate
change, the preservation of natural resources, and the reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions.
2. The cattle industry is responsible for 5% of anthropogenic emissions on an annual basis.
3. Enhancing animal health, improving nutrition, and implementing effective
management practices have the potential to yield higher levels of productivity, promote
biodiversity, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Economic challenges
 1. The primary economic concerns encompass the domains of commerce, markets, and
insufficient investment in small-scale agricultural enterprises.
2. In order to ensure food security, it is imperative that the markets for livestock and
animal products function efficiently and are readily accessible.
3. The primary factors contributing to the underdevelopment of markets encompass
knowledge deficiencies, inadequate supply chains, undervalued negative social and
environmental costs, and inadequately structured trade and tax policies.
Social challenges
1. Child labor and gender inequality are significant social issues. In pastoralist societies,
there is often a preference for males in terms of labor allocation, while the prevalence
of child labor is notable.
2. In intensive agricultural systems, farmers and other laborers often experience
substandard working conditions and occupy a relatively low social status.
3. Intensive livestock production systems are known to heavily rely on migrant labor, a
practice that is widely acknowledged to be linked to substandard working conditions.
Health challenges
1. Health issues effectively tackle both human and animal health, while emphasizing the
concept of "one world, one health."
2. Animal illnesses that result in decreased productivity pose a direct threat to food
security.
3. In low-income nations, the limited productivity primarily stems from the significant
risk posed by livestock diseases.
Animal welfare challenges
1. There is considerable variation in the perspectives on animal welfare among different
nations.
2. Hence, the matter of striking a delicate balance between augmenting production and
safeguarding the welfare of animals within the swiftly expanding, at times unregulated
intensive livestock systems on a global scale holds significant significance.

For sustainable livestock production systems

1. Implementing effective strategies and advanced technologies can enhance productivity,
promoting food security, environmental sustainability, and economic viability for
farmers. This is because reduced maintenance improves efficiency and resource
 optimization. However, these practises and technologies may affect animal welfare and
the local environment, so they must be considered.
2. Food security may be affected by livestock grazing on marginal land, which is not
suitable for crop production and protein production.
3. Weigh the benefits of increasing feed production efficiency per unit of land, such as
reduced land utilization, against potential environmental impacts.
4. Antibiotic use should be based on assessing risks of antimicrobial resistance and animal
welfare during disease treatment.
5. The livestock production system can implement a farm gate price premium due to its
strengths in meeting consumer preferences. However, this premium must be balanced
with consumer affordability.
6. The use of high-yielding, resilient breeds that fit their environment must be balanced
with animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
7. Consider animal welfare, human enjoyment, productivity reductions, and
microbiological infection risk when allocating living space and outdoor access.
Implementing technological applications to reduce nutrient losses in manure
management or processing techniques can be effective.
Sustainable livestock in India
The government is implementing measures aimed at enhancing the welfare and sustainability
of livestock farming practices. In India, there exist several prominent schemes and programs
aimed at promoting sustainable livestock production:
 Rashtriya Gokul Mission
 National Livestock Mission
 Livestock Health and Disease Control
 National Programme for Dairy development
 National Animal Disease control programme
 Livestock census and integrated sample survey
 Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund
 Animal husbandry Development Fund
 Supporting dairy cooperatives & Farmer producer organizations
Animal welfare
Animal welfare includes animal care, husbandry, and humane treatment. Protecting an animal
requires meeting its physical and mental needs. The American Veterinary Medical Association
recommends preventing diseases, providing veterinary care, providing shelter, effective
management, adequate nutrition, compassionate handling, and humane slaughter to promote
animal welfare.
The Five Freedoms, which were formulated by the Farm Animal Welfare Committee (FAWC),
constitute a coherent conceptual framework for evaluating animal welfare and have been
widely employed in various policy and legislative contexts globally.
1. One important part of being happy is not being hungry or thirsty. This can be achieved
by having clean water and a healthy diet that keeps your body healthy and full of energy.
2. Making sure there is a good environment with a safe place to stay and a comfortable
place to rest guarantees freedom from pain.
3. The first part of freedom is not having to deal with pain, illness, or injury. This can be
achieved by taking preventative steps and getting medical help right away.
4. Giving animals the right amount of space, facilities, and social interaction with their
own kind lets them act in ways that are natural to them.
5. Creating an environment that keeps people from feeling fear and distress is an important
part of promoting well-being. Setting up conditions and using treatment methods that
effectively lessen mental suffering is one way to do this.
Impact of Animal Welfare:
1. Efficiency gained by increasing flock and herd numbers and establishing bigger
husbandry units. Social behaviour is affected by group size, which affects wellbeing.
However, large farms may provide welfare benefits. These advantages may result from
improved management knowledge, specialized personnel, the ability to engage a
specialist veterinarian, and the ability to spend heavily in infrastructure and facilities,
especially animal safety facilities.
2. Stockman ship plays a crucial role in enhancing livestock productivity and ensuring
optimal animal welfare. The significance of adequate stock personnel, veterinary
expertise, and skill development becomes increasingly pronounced as animal group
size and intensification levels rise.
3. The economic aspects of production exhibit variation across different livestock sectors,
which in turn can influence the significance attributed to animal welfare by food
businesses. The pursuit of sustainable production in agriculture necessitates the
consideration of farm viability, efficiency, and profitability, as these factors not only
contribute to the success of the business but also enable the farmer to adequately
support animal welfare.
 4. Potential Precision Livestock Emergence Farming and other new technology may
improve animal wellbeing. New technology may improve a cow's ability to self-
manage, as shown by robotic milking systems. Integrating internal and exterior sensors
detects welfare and health conditions, improving animal well-being.
5. The higher the number of animals cohabitating, the greater the likelihood of infection
or disease transmission within the population.
6. This phenomenon holds true for animals residing in both outdoor systems with high
stocking densities and enclosed, controlled environments. The significance of disease
prevention has increased, necessitating the development of breeding, rearing, and
fattening systems that aim to mitigate the impact of existing and potential infections on
a substantial population of animals.
7. In 2014, the Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC) voiced dissatisfaction with the
current prevalence of endemic illnesses in UK cattle. FAWC stressed the need for more
effective disease prevention, eradication, and treatment. Proactive farm health planning
and production management may boost production efficiency and profitability.
8. Animal breeding has advanced in selection procedures and genetics, leading to
improved production capacity. The quality of management, stock people, and the
agricultural system must match these improvements.
9. Rising endo and ectoparasiticide resistance threatens animal welfare, particularly in
outdoor systems and intensification efforts. The proper use and abuse of antimicrobials
should be addressed equally.
10. The establishment and execution of efficient herd/flock health planning and biosecurity
protocols have the potential to mitigate disease and subsequently minimize costs
associated with efficiency, productivity, animal welfare, and environmental impact.
11. Whole farm management aims to improve animal welfare, economic viability, and
environmental sustainability by exploring synergistic possibilities in farming. This
technique prioritizes feed self-sufficiency, heat capture, energy efficiency, and waste
recycling to recover water, energy, and nitrate.

Conclusion
In order to promote sustainable livestock production, it is advisable to acquire a comprehensive
understanding of sustainable livestock production systems. This entails leveraging the
strengths of both conventional and organic livestock production systems to enhance existing
systems and create novel ones. It is essential to take a holistic approach by considering various
aspects such as economy, productivity, environment, animal welfare, and public health.
Moreover, it is crucial to strike an optimal balance between sustainability indicators within and
across these areas. To facilitate the establishment of potential solutions for sustainable livestock
production systems, it is recommended to employ a multicriteria decision-support model that
quantifies the causal relationships between sustainability indicators across different topics.
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