Transformation of Livestock Production Systems through a Data-Driven Approach for Efficiency and Environmental Impact Control
Keywords:
Data-Driven Livestock, Environmental Impact Control, Livestock Efficiency, Precision Livestock FarmingAbstract
This study aims to examine the transformation of livestock production systems through a data-driven approach for improving efficiency and controlling environmental impacts. The issue is important because livestock production faces increasing pressure to enhance productivity while reducing waste, emissions, and resource inefficiency. This research used a qualitative exploratory case study design involving farmers, farm managers, livestock workers, extension officers, veterinarians, technology providers, and local institutional actors. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, limited participatory observation, and documentation of production records, feeding practices, health monitoring, and environmental management activities. The data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify patterns of meaning across participants’ experiences. The findings reveal five main themes: the shift from experience-based decisions to data-informed management, improvement of feed and production efficiency, early detection of animal health and welfare problems, environmental impact control through monitoring and documentation, and socio-technical barriers in technology adoption. The study shows that data-driven livestock transformation depends not only on digital tools, but also on farmers’ trust, digital literacy, institutional support, and the suitability of technology to local production routines. These findings contribute to precision livestock farming literature by emphasizing technology as part of a socio-technical process. The study implies that livestock digitalization policies should support affordable infrastructure, practical training, data governance, and farmer-centered extension systems. Further research should examine different livestock commodities and farm scales to assess the long-term effects of data-driven practices on efficiency, welfare, and environmental sustainability.
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