Key strategies to ensure sustainability in a changing climate

While the global climate continues to change, the agriculture sector, in particular cattle agriculture, faces growing challenges. The rise in temperatures, erratic precipitation and the increased frequency of extreme weather events threaten the health, productivity and food security of animals. In response, the concept of Climate -resistant farm has become a crucial strategy to ensure the sustainability and resilience of breeding systems in the face of climate change.

Understand the impact of climate change on livestock

Breeding is directly influenced by climatic variables such as temperature, humidity, precipitation and the occurrence of droughts or floods. Some key impacts include:

• Thermal stress: The rise in temperatures can cause thermal stress in animals, negatively affecting growth rates, milk production, reproductive performance and overall health.

• Feed and Water Scarcity: Modified precipitation patterns and the increased frequency of droughts can reduce the availability and quality of food and water resources, leading to a decrease in livestock productivity.

• Expansion of diseases and parasites: Climate change can change the distribution of diseases and parasites, by introducing new health challenges for livestock. For example, changes in temperature and humidity can influence the system of the host-pathogen environment, potentially increasing the incidence of vector transmission diseases

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the production of cattle in tropical and subtropical regions is more at risk due to higher vulnerability to climatic extremes. Consequently, adaptive strategies are essential to protect animal health, improve productivity and ensure food security.

What is climate-resistant farm?

Climate -resistant farm refers to a set of adaptive and resilient practices that allow farmers to maintain livestock production under changing climatic conditions. It includes the integration of intelligent climatic practices, improved breeds, sustainable diet, better water management and increased monitoring of diseases.

Climate -resistant breeding strategies

1. Selection of breed and genetic improvement

The development and promotion of breeds that can withstand hard climates are vital. Indigenous breeds, in particular, often have higher resistance to heat and local diseases. For example: native breeds such as sahiwal and GIR cattle in India, and red sheep and Borans cattle in Africa naturally tolerate heat and resist local diseases.

Genetic improvement programs that focus on native and exotic crossed breeds can help achieve better productivity without compromising climate adaptability.

2. Improvement of accommodation and shelter

The supply of well-designed shelters that protect livestock from extreme temperatures, precipitation and humidity can considerably reduce thermal stress and improve animal welfare. The features may include:

These infrastructure adjustments are crucial to maintain the well-being and productivity of animals at increasing temperatures.

3. Sustainable food and fodder management

Climate -resistant farming systems emphasize the use of tolerant tolerant fodder species, silage manufacturing and rotation grazing to ensure food availability for the whole year. Farmers are encouraged to cultivate multi-cut fodder cultures such as Napier herbs and sorghum, which are not only resilient with dry conditions but also provide high yields of biomass.

In addition, the conservation of crop residues and the preparation of hay during the excess periods help to maintain a regular supply of food during lean seasons. Polding fodes like pen and lucerne are also favored due to their high protein content and their ability to enrich soil fertility.

In addition, the use of food supplements, probiotics and mineral blocks plays a crucial role in improving animal health, improving digestion and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thus contributing both to productivity and environmental sustainability.

4. Water conservation and management

Water efficient breeding systems involve harvesting rainwater, effective water systems and water reuse as much as possible. Solar energy alloys and drip irrigation for fodder crops are increasingly adopted in water scorce regions.

5. Surveillance of veterinary diseases and care

Climate change can lead to the emergence of new zoonotic diseases. Consequently, early alert systems, regular vaccinations, biosecurity measures and access to veterinary care are essential components of resilient farming.

In addition, the adoption of integrated antiparasitic control practices reduces dependence on chemical pesticides, thereby minimizing environmental impact and improving the health of livestock.

6. Management of manure and reduction of emissions

Livestock contributes important to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), in particular methane. The adoption of sustainable manure management practices such as the production of biogas, composting and improved housing systems can reduce emissions and offer additional advantages such as energy and organic fertilizers.

7. Digital tools and early alert systems

Farmers are increasingly using mobile applications, remote sensing and climate forecasting tools to make informed decisions on breeding, food and disease management. These tools help farmers prepare for unfavorable weather conditions and reduce the risks related to the climate.

Political support and training of farmers

Governments and institutions play an essential role in promoting resilient farming practices in the climate. Key interventions include:

• Training and capacity building programs for farmers

• Grants and incentives to adopt infrastructure and resilient technologies

• Installing intelligent climatic cattle areas

• Research and development of tolerant heat breeds and foods

Organizations such as Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Institute for Research on Livestock (ILRI) and various national agricultural research institutions are actively working on climate adaptation strategies for livestock.

Climate -resistant farm is not only an option but a necessity in today’s world. By adopting holistic and sustainable practices, farmers can reduce vulnerability to climate change while improving productivity and income. The path to follow lies in the integration of scientific innovation, indigenous knowledge and political support to build breeding systems which are both resilient in the climate and economically viable.

As climatic uncertainties are developing, investing in the resilience of our breeding systems will be the key to guaranteeing food security, rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability in the years to come.

Posted for the first time on: March 11, 2025, 12:33 IST