SUSTAINABLE LIVESTOCK FARMING: STRATEGIES FOR ANIMAL HEALTH, PRODUCTIVITY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Livestock farming plays an important role in global food systems by providing meat, milk, eggs, fibre, employment, and economic opportunities for rural communities. However, increasing demand for animal products has created challenges related to animal health, resource consumption, waste management, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. Sustainable livestock farming aims to maintain or improve animal productivity and welfare while reducing negative environmental impacts and ensuring the long-term viability of farming communities. This review examines major strategies for developing sustainable livestock production systems, with particular emphasis on animal health management, nutrition, pasture management, water conservation, manure management, disease prevention, and environmentally responsible production practices. Preventive veterinary care, balanced nutrition, appropriate housing, biosecurity, and regular monitoring can improve animal health and productivity. At the same time, improved feed efficiency, rotational grazing, manure recycling, water-use efficiency, and integration of livestock with crop production can reduce pressure on natural resources. The paper also discusses the role of technology, precision livestock farming, farmer education, and supportive policies in promoting sustainable livestock systems. Although several challenges may limit adoption, including financial costs, limited technical knowledge, inadequate infrastructure, and variable market conditions, coordinated approaches involving farmers, veterinarians, researchers, policymakers, and agricultural organizations can support sustainable development. Sustainable livestock farming therefore requires an integrated approach in which animal health, productivity, environmental protection, and socioeconomic considerations are addressed simultaneously.