The world's livestock sector is undergoing a massive transformation, fuelled by high demand for meat and milks, which is likely to double over
the next two decades in developing countries. The major driving force behind this soaring demand for livestock products is a combination of population
growth, urbanization and income growth. The challenge is to enhance animal productivity without any adverse effects on environment.
In developing countries productivity of animals is restricted by low protein and high fiber content of the native grasses and crop residues and their seasonal shortages. Low quality, highly fibrous forages when fed to ruminants result in greater emissions of methane, a greenhouse gas. In addition to posing environmental risks, this also lowers the efficiency of feed energy utilization.
The manure produced by livestock is often neglected and left to deteriorate on ground in many countries. Decomposing manure undergoes microbial activities that release large quantities of methane and nitrous oxides into the atmosphere. In addition, free nitrates and phosphorus may also be released, which leach into the soil and enter the ground water or accumulate in inland water bodies, making them unsuitable for use and by humans and other biota. When used properly, animal manure can be used as a source of plant nutrients, which will enhance the quality and the quantity of forages and cash crops.
Our aim is to meet the high demand of animal products imposed by the 'Livestock Revolution' taking place in developing countries by making the livestock production systems more efficient and sustainable. This goal is being achieved through the use of integrated approaches considering animal nutrition, breeding and health issues simultaneously, preventing leakage of nutrients to the environment, and characterization and judicious use of local plant and animal resources.
