Balancing Productivity With Animal Welfare
Balancing Productivity With Animal Welfare
Balancing Productivity With Animal Welfare
A
final
Report on
BALANCING PRODUCTIVITY
WITH
ANIMAL WELFARE
SUBMITTED TO:
Surya Prasad Sharma
Assistant Professor
Tribhuvan University
IAAS, Rampur Campus
SUBMITTED BY:
GROUP 4
Roll No.: 23-29
IAAS, Rampur Campus
6th Semester
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ABSTRACT
This comprehensive report explores the critical balance between animal welfare and livestock
productivity in modern agriculture. It examines current welfare issues across various livestock
sectors, including poultry, cattle, pigs, and small ruminants, highlighting the physical,
behavioral, and psychological impacts of poor welfare conditions. The study presents strategies
for improving animal welfare while maintaining productivity, such as enhanced management
practices, genetic selection for robustness, alternative farming systems, and technological
integration. Case studies from diverse global contexts demonstrate successful approaches to
balancing welfare and productivity. A cost-benefit analysis framework is provided to evaluate
welfare improvements, considering both initial investments and long-term benefits. The report
concludes that prioritizing animal welfare alongside productivity is essential for sustainable and
ethical livestock production, benefiting animals, farmers, and consumers alike. It emphasizes the
need for continued research, education, and policy support to further integrate welfare
considerations into productivity strategies, ensuring the livestock industry can meet growing
global demand while upholding ethical standards.
Keywords: animal welfare, productivity, livestock, farming, management
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Title Page
1.INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………. 4-5
2.CASE STUDY………….………………………………………….. 5-6
3.MATERIAL AND METHODS…………………………………… 7
4.RESULT AND DISCUSSION…………………………………….. 7-12
5.SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION………………………………. 13
6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT……………………………………….. 14
7.REFERENCES……………………………………………………. 15-16
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background
Animal welfare is a key component of sustainable livestock management. It includes
Practices that ensure the health and comfort of the animals that lead to better productivity and
higher quality products. Animal welfare is an essential element of modern animal production.
First and foremost, animal welfare is grounded on ethical concerns that derive from the fact that
animals are sentient beings, i.e., able to suffer and experience emotions (Le Neindre et al., 2017).
There are many perspectives on animal welfare. Some may think that an animal that is producing
well has good animal welfare while others think that animals with a high level or production
must have poor welfare. In reality, the link between production and welfare is more complex.
The balance between livestock productivity and animal welfare is a critical issue. The growing
global demand for animal-derived products pressures industries to enhance productivity, but
prioritizing productivity without regard for animal welfare can lead to unethical practices and
unsustainable production. Productivity refers to efficient production, while animal welfare
pertains to the physical and psychological well-being of animals. Balancing these aspects is
crucial, as high animal welfare standards can improve productivity by promoting healthier, less
stressed animals. The ideal relationship lies between maximizing production efficiency and
ensuring adequate animal welfare. As consumer concerns about animal welfare grow, there may
be a shift towards greater value on animal welfare, even if it means lower production efficiency.
Improved welfare standards led to better animal health, reduced stress, and increased yields,
translating to higher profitability for producers. Furthermore, products from high-welfare farms
gained access to premium markets and fetched higher prices (Nkatekho, Blessings., 2024).
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1.3. Rationale of Study
This report aims to explore the dynamic interplay between productivity and animal welfare,
delving into ethical considerations, regulatory frameworks, and practical strategies. It seeks to
ensure that while maximizing productivity, the welfare of animals is upheld and prioritized. By
examining these elements, the report aims to offer insights and recommendations for achieving a
harmonious balance where productivity goals are met without compromising the well-being of
animals involved.
1.4. Objectives
To assess existing methods to identify opportunities for improving productivity while
maintaining high standards of animal welfare.
To create actionable guidelines that promote efficient production methods without
compromising the health and welfare of animals.
To educate farmers, policymakers, and consumers about the economic and ethical advantages
of integrating animal welfare into productivity strategies.
2. CASE STUDIES
It is evident that the enhanced animal welfare results higher gain in the productivity with high
quality products. Maintaining the balance between productivity and animal welfare ensures
sustainable and enhanced profitability in animal rearing and husbandry. Recent studies in past
shows the successful balance in productivity and animal welfare. Some of them are mentioned
below:
A. In the United States (the world's largest producer of beef), livestock productivity has
experienced significant improvements due to technological advancements, genetic
enhancements, and refined management practices. These productivity gains are attributed to
the adoption of precision farming techniques, such as GPS technology for efficient grazing
management and automated feeding systems that optimize animal nutrition. (USDA, 2020;
Mathews & Johnson, 2013).
B. Japan has enhanced livestock productivity through the adoption of advanced technologies
and the development of resilient livestock breeds. For example, the Wagyu beef industry
(one of the most expensive meats in the world), renowned for its high-quality meat, has
benefited from genetic improvements and meticulous management practices. In 2020, Japan
produced approximately 480,000 tons of beef and veal and 1.28 million tons of pork (MAFF,
2020).
C. Brazil is one of the world's leading producers of livestock, particularly in beef and poultry. In
2020, Brazil produced 10.4 million metric tons of beef and 14 million metric tons of poultry
meat, making it one of the largest exporters of these products globally (FAO, 2021). The
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country has also invested in improving livestock genetics and adopting integrated crop-
livestock-forestry systems, which enhance sustainability and productivity.
D. The UK's livestock industry is diverse, characterized by both intensive and extensive farming
systems. Initiatives such as the Red Tractor Assurance scheme ensure that farms meet
stringent criteria for animal welfare, environmental protection, and food safety, thereby
enhancing productivity and consumer trust. Additionally, the UK has focused on improving
genetic selection and breeding practices, resulting in healthier animals and higher yields. The
integration of advanced technologies, such as automated milking systems and precision
feeding, has also played a crucial role in boosting productivity (DEFRA, 2020; Ingram, Mills
& Dibari, 2018).
E. Countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania have significant livestock populations, with
cattle, goats, and sheep being the most common. In Kenya, for example, livestock contributes
about 12% of the GDP and employs millions of people (Kenya National Bureau of Statistics,
2020). Efforts to enhance productivity in these regions include the introduction of improved
breeds, better veterinary services, and sustainable grazing practices. However, challenges
such as disease outbreaks, climate change, and limited access to markets hinder productivity.
For instance, recurring droughts and lack of infrastructure can lead to significant livestock
losses, impacting overall productivity (Cramer, Thornton & Loboguerrero, 2017; Kimaru-
Muchai, Mugwe, Mucheru-Muna & Mugendi, 2020).
Data sources:
As for the source of information mostly secondary source of data like scientific journal,
statistical sources, books, research paper were used during the preparation of this report.
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4.1.1. Common welfare issues
a) Poultry Welfare
Poultry welfare is a significant focus due to intensive farming practices and increased
consumer awareness.
Crowding and Space Limitations: Overcrowding in poultry farms can lead to stress,
aggression, and reduced welfare (Sherwin et al., 2021).
Lack of Enrichment: Absence of environmental enrichment such as perches or pecking
objects can result in boredom and feather pecking (Duncan et al., 2020).
Health Issues: High stocking densities increase the risk of disease outbreaks and can
compromise bird health (Martrenchar et al., 2023).
Transportation Stress: cause a significant level of stress in the birds leading to stress,
production loss and hampering welfare of broilers (Siddharth et al., 2024).
b) Cattle Welfare
Cattle welfare issues primarily involve housing, handling, and breeding practices.
Confinement and Housing: Confinement in small spaces can cause physical discomfort
and limit natural behaviors (Hemsworth et al., 2022).
Transportation Stress: Transporting cattle over long distances without adequate rest,
water, and feed provisions can induce stress and injuries (Grandin, 2021).
Breeding Practices: Intensive breeding techniques can lead to health issues and reduced
welfare in calves and dairy cows.
c) Pig Welfare
Pigs face welfare challenges related to housing systems, environmental enrichment, and health
management.
Confinement Systems: Intensive indoor systems with limited space and barren
environments can result in stress, tail biting, and aggression (Spoolder et al., 2023).
Tail Docking and Teeth Clipping: Common practices like tail docking and teeth clipping
can cause pain and compromise welfare if not performed correctly (Marchant-Forde,
2020).
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Handling and Transport: Improper handling during shearing and transportation can cause
stress, injuries, and fear responses (Kannan et al., 2020).
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Ethical Concerns: Poor animal welfare raises ethical issues related to the treatment of
animals, including concerns about suffering and moral obligations towards sentient beings
(Yeates, 2020).
Public Perception: Negative media coverage and public perception of animal welfare issues
can influence policy-making, consumer choices, and societal attitudes towards livestock
farming practices (Martins et al., 2021).
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Pasture based and free-range systems providing animals with space to explore and exhibit
natural behaviors can reduce stress and improve overall welfare.
Organic farming: Following strict guidelines that prohibit synthetic pesticides, antibiotics
and genetically modified (GMO’s) promoting natural feed and sustainable practices.
Agroecological farming: Farming system to be designed that mimic natural ecosystem,
emphasizes biodiversity, soil health and pest control. Also incorporating livestock into
diversified farming systems like mixed crop- livestock or agroforestry that improve
nutrient cycling, soil fertility.
d) Providing education and training for farmers, workers regarding animal welfare standards
and sustainable agriculture principles.
e) Keeping detailed records of animal health, behavior and productivity metrics allows for early
detection of issues, implement vaccination programs of issues, implement vaccination
programs parasite control measures and timely veterinary care when needed.
f) Integration of technology such as sensors, data analytics and automated system to monitor
animal health and behavior, optimize feeding regimes.
Hence holistic approach that values both efficiency and the well-being of animals, businesses can
achieve sustainable success. Embracing technologies that enhance monitoring and care, coupled
with robust training programs for staff, ensures humane treatment while optimizing productivity.
Ultimately, by prioritizing ethical standards alongside operational goals, we not only safeguard
animal welfare but also cultivate a culture of responsibility and innovation in our industries.
b) Operational Costs:
Labor: Additional labor costs for increased monitoring and care of animals.
Feed and Nutrition: Potential changes in feed formulations to improve animal health and
welfare.
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Veterinary Care: Enhanced veterinary care and regular health checks.
Compliance: Costs associated with meeting regulatory standards and certifications.
c) Transition Period Costs:
Costs incurred during the transition phase from current practices to improved welfare
standards.
a) Productivity Gains:
Healthier Animals: Reduced disease incidence and improved growth rates due to better
living conditions.
Improved Feed Conversion: Enhanced efficiency in converting feed into animal products.
Reproductive Success: Better reproductive performance and reduced mortality rates.
b) Quality Improvements:
Product Quality: Higher quality products due to improved animal health and welfare.
Consumer Perception: Increased consumer trust and willingness to pay premium prices
for ethically produced products.
c) Risk Reduction:
Market Access: Maintaining access to markets with stringent animal welfare
requirements.
Reputation: Safeguarding brand reputation and reducing the risk of negative publicity
related to animal welfare issues.
d) Long-term Sustainability:
Environmental Impact: Mitigating environmental impacts associated with intensive
farming practices.
Social Responsibility: Meeting societal expectations regarding ethical treatment of
animals.
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- PLF involves the use of sensors, IoT (Internet of Things) devices, and data analytics
to monitor livestock health, behavior, and productivity in real-time. For example:
BirdBox aids understanding of bird welfare.
Regenerative Agriculture:
- Practices such as rotational grazing, diverse cover cropping, and soil health
management not only benefit the environment but also enhance animal welfare by
providing natural habitats and diverse diets.
Balancing productivity with animal welfare in livestock farming is a complex but essential
challenge for the modern agricultural industry. This report has explored various aspects of this
balance, from current welfare issues to strategies for improvement and real-world case studies.
The evidence presented demonstrates that enhancing animal welfare is not only ethically
imperative but can also lead to significant productivity gains. Improved welfare conditions result
in healthier animals, better product quality, and increased consumer trust. Strategies such as
optimized housing, genetic selection for robustness, alternative farming systems, and the
integration of technology offer promising avenues for achieving this balance. Case studies from
countries like the United States, Japan, Brazil, the UK, and various African nations highlight that
progress is possible and ongoing. These examples show that adopting welfare-friendly practices
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can coexist with, and even enhance, productivity goals. The cost-benefit analysis framework
outlined in this report provides a tool for farmers and policymakers to evaluate the economic
implications of welfare improvements. While there are initial costs associated with implementing
higher welfare standards, the long-term benefits including increased productivity, improved
product quality, and better market access often outweigh these investments.
In conclusion, the future of sustainable livestock farming lies in approaches that prioritize both
animal welfare and productivity. By embracing innovative practices, leveraging technology, and
responding to growing consumer demands for ethically produced products, the livestock industry
can create a more sustainable and humane future. This approach not only benefits the animals but
also enhances the long-term viability and reputation of the agricultural sector.
Moving forward, continued research, education, and policy support will be crucial in furthering
the integration of welfare considerations into productivity strategies. The livestock industry must
remain adaptable, continually seeking new ways to improve animal welfare while meeting the
growing global demand for animal products.
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5.1.1. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We, group 4, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to
the completion of this report on the topic "Balancing Productivity and Animal Welfare". First
and foremost, we deeply thank our professor, Surya Prasad Sharma, for the support and
encouragement throughout. We also appreciate the creators and publishers of the online articles,
research papers, and reports that formed the foundation of this study. We are indebted to the
academic institutions and organizations that have made their resources freely available online.
Additionally, we extend our appreciation to peers and colleagues who provided insightful
discussions and feedback throughout the process. Your perspectives have enriched the quality of
this report. Thank you all for your contributions, guidance, and encouragement.
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