Outgoing British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) president, Prof. Elizabeth Magowan has said that there is a “growing body” of evidence that “livestock are an important part of the wider ecosystem”.
The president spoke at the BSAS 2024 annual conference in Belfast, where the compatibility between livestock production and ecosystem sustainability was highlighted.
She explained that “while scientists recognise that the volume of livestock is creating environmental pressures, as regards greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, nitrogen (N) excretions and ammonia emissions, it is the actual numbers of animals that is creating these challenges”.
BSAS
According to Magowan, livestock production systems, if managed properly, can enhance biodiversity and actually improve ecosystems.
“It’s all about finding the sweet spot,” she stressed.
“Livestock production output in places like China and Africa will be increased to meet this demand. However, this must be achieved on a sustainable basis.
“Meanwhile in Europe, the clear focus will be on producing livestock products in line with the very clear and climate change targets that have now been established.”
Elizabeth Magowan is very confident that continuing research will lead to the development of new technologies that will help to greatly reduce the carbon footprint of the various livestock sectors.
“The clear focus of this week’s conference has been on the clear compatibility between livestock production and ecosystem sustainability,” she added.
The implantation of existing technologies will also help to get the various livestock sectors well down the road in terms of them meeting their climate change obligations.
Magown explained: “Getting soils tested on a regular basis and correcting nutrient status accordingly is critically important in this context.
“The use of multi-species swards and herbal leys will also help secure improved efficiency levels on ruminant farms.”
BSAS is confirming that the proceedings from its 2024 annual conference will be summarised in order to communicate the strongest message possible to policy makers and a wide range of stakeholder groups, regarding the future potential for livestock production.
“It is very important that scientists play a central role in communicating the key developments taking place within the livestock industries at this time,” Magown said.