Circular Economy Models in Animal Production Systems for Sustainable Resource Utilization

Abstract

Rising demand for livestock products has placed growing pressure on their use of resources, increased livestock waste and pollution, and increased GHG emissions from traditional livestock production systems, which are now environmentally and economically unsustainable. With linear production systems, feed, water, energy and nutrients are wasted and valuable biological waste is not used. This research suggests an Integrated Circular Economy Framework for Sustainable Animal Production to improve resource utilization by establishing a closed loop in the management of resources (materials, energy and nutrient). The proposed framework combines Precision Livestock Farming (PLF), nutrient recycling, manure valorization, bioenergy production using renewable feedstocks, water recycling, and digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and blockchain to aid in the intelligent monitoring and optimization of resources. The evaluation of the studies was done by using the multidimensional indicator that includes environmental, operational, economic and social sustainability. The results indicate high benefits when compared to conventional livestock production systems in terms of carbon emission reduction (46%), water recycling efficiency (82%), waste recovery (91%), renewable energy utilization (67%), overall resource utilization efficiency (89%) and operational costs reduction (36%). Moreover, the framework will enhance farm profitability, adoption of technologies, transparency of the supply chains and less reliance on synthetic fertilizers and fossil fuels. The results show that the application of circular economy principles and smart digital technologies can enable to change the traditional livestock production into a resilient, climate-smart and resource efficient system. The framework that is proposed offers practical elements of guidance for those involved in research, policy and practice who want to contribute to sustainable agricultural development, better environmental outcomes and long-term food security by implementing circular resource management.