The Animal Production Paradox: Navigating Ethics and Economics in Modern Farming
2025
Luštrek, Barbara | Gantner, Vesna | Potočnik, Klemen
Modern farming methods in developed countries often prioritize efficiency at the cost of animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and public health. Intensive livestock farming contributes to biodiversity loss, greenhouse gas emissions, and resource degradation, raising concerns about long-term vi ability. While only a small portion of the global population lives in these regions, changes in their agricultural practices have global consequences. This paper explores ethical and economic issues in livestock farming and suggests solutions such as regenerative agriculture, agroecological practic es, and digital technologies. For example, regenerative agriculture can re store soil health, improve biodiversity, and reduce carbon emissions, while digital technologies such as precision farming can optimize resource use and minimize waste. The role of smallholder farmers in promoting sustainable, resilient food systems is highlighted, emphasizing their ability to utilize local ecosystems and traditional knowledge. The paper calls for a multidimension al approach that integrates ethics and economics in agriculture. Collabora tion between policymakers, farmers, and consumers is essential to create a humane, sustainable, and equitable food system.
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Bibliographic information
Publisher Institute of Agricultural Economics, Belgrade (Serbia)
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