What does sustainability in animal agriculture focus on?

Sustainability in animal agriculture emphasizes practices that maintain productivity while preserving resources. This involves managing agricultural systems to ensure that they meet current demands without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. By focusing on the responsible use of resources such as water, land, and feed, sustainable practices aim to reduce the environmental impact of animal farming, enhance animal welfare, and promote biodiversity.

This approach includes implementing efficient feeding strategies, improving animal health and welfare standards, and adopting technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, all while maintaining the economic viability of farming operations. The goal is to create a balance where livestock production can continue in a way that supports both human needs and environmental stewardship.

In contrast, maximizing profit at all costs often neglects environmental and ethical considerations. Eliminating livestock entirely would not align with the goals of sustainability, which recognizes the role of animal agriculture in food systems. Similarly, increasing feed production without limits can lead to resource depletion and environmental degradation, which contradicts the principles of sustainable agriculture.