Farming systems and the use of DAP in support of sustainable agriculture
1992
Petheram, R.J. | Guzman, M.R. De(Anos, Los Banos, Laguna (Philippines))
Importance of draught animal power (DAP) is increasing in the South East Asian region. Work animals are complementing motor power, or providing most of the power in a range of different farming systems. Research on DAP and its complementarity with cropping is now a priority area of research and development. Raising animals for work has added sustainability to farming, through tillage and cartage, increasing farm income from stock sales and rental, providing security and capital growth, utilizing farm by-products, providing animal fertilizers, reducing farm risk and through its inherent self-replacing nature. Draught animals contribute about seven percent of the world's total methane emissions to the atmosphere, However, DAP uses a replaceable energy source and does not rely on burning fossil fuels. There are some risks of DAP misuse leading to land degradation in sensitive and steep areas, but in general DAP use makes a valuable contribution to the stability and viability of Asian systems. Potential exists for improving the role of DAP in sustainable agriculture-through enhanced efficiency in feeding and through adoption of more efficient implements and carts. However, as most users are resource-poor farmers, the most acceptable changes will be simple ones at present. Improved composting, biogas production and use of more sophisticated DAP equipment are improvements that will require major advances in our ability to influence farmer knowledge and organisations.
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