Environmental Sustainability in Livestock Production

Purpose: The general purpose of this study was to analyze environmental sustainability in livestock production. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to environmental sustainability in livestock production. The study provided valuable insights into the complex interactions between livestock production practices and environmental sustainability, highlighting significant challenges such as greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. It emphasized the importance of adopting integrated approaches to mitigate these impacts, stressing the need for transformative changes in livestock production. The study also underscored the role of policy and governance mechanisms in driving sustainable practices and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration. Urgency was emphasized in addressing environmental sustainability in livestock production to mitigate negative impacts, urging concerted action from governments, industry stakeholders, researchers, and consumers for a sustainable future. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Agroecology theory, Socio-Ecological Systems theory and the Sustainable Livelihoods approach may be used to anchor future studies on environmental sustainability in livestock production. The recommendations advocate for the promotion of sustainable livestock production practices, emphasizing techniques like rotational grazing and integrated pest management to minimize environmental degradation. Investing in research and innovation is crucial to developing new technologies for enhanced sustainability, while education initiatives empower farmers with necessary skills. Policymakers are urged to shape regulations and provide incentives for sustainable practices, with collaboration among stakeholders highlighted as essential for addressing environmental challenges effectively. Raising consumer awareness and promoting sustainable consumption patterns further drive positive change throughout the supply chain. In conclusion, a multifaceted approach integrating innovation, policy, education, and collaboration is essential for achieving environmental sustainability in livestock production, ensuring a balance between conservation and development.


INTRODUCTION
Environmental sustainability refers to the responsible use and management of natural resources to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.It encompasses various dimensions such as ecological integrity, social equity, and economic viability, aiming to maintain a balance between human activities and the natural environment.Achieving environmental sustainability requires addressing pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion.According to Miao, Liu & Wang (2019), sustainable development goals emphasize the importance of environmental sustainability in mitigating environmental degradation and promoting global well-being.
In the United States, efforts towards environmental sustainability have been multifaceted.The country has implemented policies and initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and protect natural habitats.For example, the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 have contributed to significant reductions in air pollutants, with sulfur dioxide emissions decreasing by 91% and nitrogen oxides by 82% between 199082% between and 201982% between (EPA, 2021)).Additionally, renewable energy sources like wind and solar power have seen remarkable growth, accounting for 21% of total electricity generation in 2020 (EIA, 2021).
The United Kingdom has also made substantial strides in environmental sustainability.The UK Climate Change Act of 2008 set legally binding targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for an 80% reduction by 2050 compared to 1990 levels.As a result, the UK has witnessed a decline in emissions from sectors like energy, transportation, and industry.Between 1990 and 2019, carbon dioxide emissions decreased by 42%, while renewable energy's share in electricity generation surged to 48.5% in 2020 (BEIS, 2021).Furthermore, initiatives such as the 25 Year Environment Plan aim to restore biodiversity, improve air and water quality, and promote sustainable land use practices.
In Japan, environmental sustainability has been a priority amidst industrialization and urbanization.The country has implemented policies to promote energy efficiency, waste reduction, and conservation of natural resources.For instance, Japan's Basic Environment Law emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable development.The introduction of feed-in tariffs has incentivized the expansion of renewable energy sources, leading to an increase in solar photovoltaic installations to 67.7 GW by the end of 2020 (METI, 2021).Moreover, Japan has been investing in technologies like hydrogen fuel cells and offshore wind to transition towards a low-carbon economy.
In Brazil, environmental sustainability efforts are crucial due to the country's significant biodiversity and reliance on natural resources.The Brazilian government has implemented policies to combat deforestation, protect indigenous territories, and promote sustainable agriculture.Despite challenges, deforestation in the Amazon rainforest has shown a declining trend in recent years.From August 2020 to July 2021, deforestation rates decreased by 15% compared to the previous year (INPE, 2021).Additionally, Brazil has been expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in hydropower and biofuels, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
African countries face diverse environmental sustainability challenges due to factors such as population growth, poverty, and climate change vulnerability.However, there are notable efforts towards sustainable development across the continent.For example, the African Union's Agenda 2063 outlines a vision for inclusive growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable resource management.In East Africa, countries like Kenya have made significant investments in renewable energy, with geothermal power contributing to over 29% of electricity generation in 2020 (KenGen, 2021).Moreover, initiatives to restore degraded landscapes, such as the Great Green Wall project, aim to combat desertification and enhance resilience to climate change.Environmental sustainability is a global imperative requiring collaborative efforts from governments, businesses, communities, and individuals.While progress has been made in various regions, there is still much work to be done to address environmental challenges effectively.By implementing evidence-based policies, investing in green technologies, and fostering international cooperation, countries can advance towards a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.
Livestock production practices encompass a wide range of activities involved in the breeding, raising, and management of domesticated animals for various purposes, including food, fiber, and labor.These practices can significantly impact environmental sustainability due to their reliance on natural resources and their potential to contribute to issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, and water pollution (Herrero, Wirsenius, Henderson, Rigolot, Thornton, Havlík & Gerber, 2015).One crucial aspect of livestock production is feed management, which involves the sourcing, composition, and distribution of feed to animals.The type of feed used, its nutritional content, and the efficiency of feed conversion can influence environmental sustainability.For example, incorporating more sustainable feed ingredients such as locally sourced forage or byproducts from food processing can reduce the ecological footprint of livestock production (FAO, 2013).
Grazing systems play a significant role in livestock production, especially for ruminant animals such as cattle and sheep.Different grazing strategies, such as rotational grazing or continuous grazing, can affect soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.Well-managed grazing systems that mimic natural ecosystems can promote environmental sustainability by enhancing soil fertility, reducing erosion, and preserving habitats for wildlife (Teague, Apfelbaum, Lal, Kreuter, Rowntree, Davies & Wang, 2013).Livestock production generates substantial amounts of waste, including manure, urine, and bedding materials.Effective waste management practices are essential to minimize environmental pollution and nutrient runoff.Technologies such as anaerobic digesters, composting, and nutrient management plans can help capture the nutrients from livestock waste and recycle them back into agricultural systems, thereby reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and mitigating water contamination (Dinh, Tu & Smits, 2020).
Water is a vital resource in livestock production, both for animal hydration and agricultural activities.However, inefficient water use and pollution from runoff can strain freshwater ecosystems and exacerbate water scarcity issues.Implementing water-efficient practices such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and water recycling can reduce the environmental impact of livestock operations and ensure sustainable water management (FAO, 2016).Genetic selection plays a crucial role in shaping livestock characteristics such as growth rate, disease resistance, and feed efficiency.By breeding animals with desirable traits, producers can improve productivity and resource use efficiency in livestock systems.Selective breeding for traits like heat tolerance or methane emission reduction can contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the environmental footprint of livestock production (García-Ruiz, Cole, VanRaden, Wiggans, Ruiz-López & Van Tassell, 2019).
Disease prevention and control are essential aspects of livestock production to ensure animal welfare and productivity.Disease outbreaks can have significant economic and environmental consequences, including the use of antibiotics, increased mortality rates, and environmental contamination.Implementing biosecurity measures, vaccination programs, and integrated pest management can help minimize the use of antibiotics and chemical inputs, promoting environmental sustainability (Grace, Dominguez-Salas, Alonso, Fahrion, Haesler, Heilmann & Zinsstag, 2018).Livestock housing and shelter designs can influence animal comfort, behavior, and environmental impacts.Confinement systems such as concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) can lead to air and water pollution, while well-designed housing systems with proper ventilation and waste management can mitigate environmental risks.Alternative housing systems such as pasture-based or free-range systems can provide environmental benefits by reducing the need for energy-intensive infrastructure and promoting natural behaviors (Friggens, Blanc, Berry, Puillet & Bigeon, 2017).
Energy consumption in livestock production, including feed processing, heating, ventilation, and transportation, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion.Improving energy efficiency through the adoption of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient equipment, and process optimization can reduce the carbon footprint of livestock operations.Integrated energy management strategies that utilize waste heat and byproducts can further enhance environmental sustainability (Cederberg, Flysjö & Henriksson, 2017).Livestock production requires significant land resources for grazing, feed production, and infrastructure development.Unsustainable land use practices such as deforestation, overgrazing, and soil degradation can degrade ecosystems and contribute to habitat loss and biodiversity decline.Implementing land use planning measures such as agroforestry, rotational grazing, and land zoning can promote sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation in livestock production systems (Havlík, Valin, Herrero, Obersteiner, Schmid, Rufino & Mosnier, 2014).
Policy frameworks and regulatory mechanisms play a crucial role in shaping livestock production practices and their environmental impacts.Government policies related to land use, water quality, animal welfare, and emissions control can influence producer behavior and incentivize sustainable practices.Multilateral agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals provide a global framework for addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development in livestock systems (FAO, 2015).Livestock production practices are intricately linked to environmental sustainability, with their management and implementation significantly influencing ecological, social, and economic outcomes.By adopting integrated approaches that prioritize resource efficiency, animal welfare, and ecosystem health, stakeholders can mitigate the environmental impacts of livestock production and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Statement of the Problem
Livestock production plays a crucial role in global food security and economic development, but its environmental sustainability is increasingly questioned due to its significant environmental footprint.According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the livestock sector contributes to approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with emissions expected to rise as demand for animal products increases (FAO, 2019).Despite growing concerns about the environmental impact of livestock production, there remains a critical gap in understanding the complex interactions between production practices and environmental sustainability.While various studies have examined specific aspects of livestock's environmental impact, such as feed efficiency or waste management, there is limited comprehensive research that integrates multiple factors to provide holistic insights into the environmental sustainability of livestock production systems.This study aims to address this gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the environmental sustainability of livestock production, considering key factors such as feed management, waste disposal, water usage, and land management practices.The findings of this study will benefit multiple stakeholders involved in livestock production and environmental management.Firstly, policymakers and regulatory agencies will gain valuable insights into the environmental implications of different livestock production practices, allowing them to develop evidence-based policies and regulations to promote sustainable livestock production.Additionally, livestock producers and industry stakeholders will benefit from a better understanding of the environmental risks and opportunities associated with their operations, enabling them to adopt more sustainable practices and improve their environmental performance.Moreover, consumers increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their food choices will benefit from transparent information about the environmental sustainability of livestock products, empowering them to make more informed purchasing decisions.Ultimately, the findings of this study have the potential to contribute to the transition towards more sustainable and resilient livestock production systems, addressing both environmental and socio-economic challenges in the agricultural sector.

Agroecology Theory
Originating from the work of agronomist and scientist Miguel A. Altieri, agroecology theory emphasizes the importance of ecological principles in agricultural systems.At its core, agroecology seeks to understand and optimize the interactions between plants, animals, humans, and the environment within agricultural landscapes.This theory advocates for sustainable farming practices that promote biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience while minimizing external inputs such as pesticides and fertilizers (Altieri, 1995).In the context of "Environmental Sustainability in Livestock Production," agroecology theory provides a framework for integrating livestock production into agroecosystems in a way that enhances environmental sustainability.By considering the ecological dynamics of livestock systems, such as nutrient cycling, pasture management, and agroforestry integration, agroecology theory offers insights into how to design livestock production systems that are not only productive but also environmentally sustainable (Wezel, Bellon, Doré, Francis, Vallod & David, 2009).

Socio-Ecological Systems Theory
Socio-ecological systems theory, developed by scholars such as Elinor Ostrom, focuses on the complex interactions between social and ecological components within coupled human-environment systems.This theory recognizes that human activities, including livestock production, are embedded within broader social and environmental contexts and are shaped by institutions, governance structures, and cultural norms (Ostrom, 2009).In the context of livestock production, socio-ecological systems theory highlights the interconnectedness between human decision-making, livestock management practices, and environmental outcomes.Understanding the social and institutional dimensions of livestock production is crucial for designing policies and interventions that promote environmental sustainability while addressing the needs and aspirations of diverse stakeholders (Folke, Pritchard Jr, Berkes, Colding, & Svedin, 2002).

Sustainable Livelihoods Approach
The sustainable livelihoods approach, pioneered by Robert Chambers and colleagues, emphasizes the importance of livelihood strategies that enhance human well-being while maintaining the resilience of natural resources and ecosystems.This approach recognizes that livelihoods are influenced by a combination of social, economic, environmental, and institutional factors and seeks to empower marginalized communities to pursue sustainable livelihood options (Chambers, 1995).In the context of livestock production, the sustainable livelihoods approach provides a lens for understanding how livestock-based livelihoods contribute to rural economies and food security while also considering their environmental impacts.By identifying pathways for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of livestock-dependent livelihoods, this approach can inform interventions that support both human development and environmental conservation goals (Scoones, 2009).

Empirical Review
Smith & Bustamante (2012) evaluated the environmental impacts of intensive livestock production systems, focusing on factors such as greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and nutrient runoff.The researchers conducted a life cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify the environmental burdens associated with different stages of intensive livestock production, including feed production, animal rearing, and waste management.The study found that intensive livestock production systems contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and habitat degradation.Feed production and manure management were identified as major hotspots of environmental impact.The researchers recommended implementing mitigation measures such as improving feed efficiency, optimizing waste management practices, and promoting alternative protein sources to reduce the environmental footprint of intensive livestock production.
Teague, Apfelbaum, Lal, Kreuter, Rowntree, Davies & Wang (2016( aimed to compare the economic and environmental performance of pasture-based livestock systems with conventional intensive systems.The researchers conducted a comparative analysis of production costs, resource use efficiency, and environmental impacts between pasture-based and intensive livestock production systems using farm-level data and life cycle assessment.The study found that pasture-based livestock systems had lower production costs, reduced reliance on external inputs, and lower environmental impacts compared to intensive systems.Pasture-based systems also exhibited higher levels of biodiversity and ecosystem services.The researchers recommended promoting and supporting the transition towards pasture-based livestock systems as a more economically and environmentally sustainable approach to livestock production.Kleinman, Sharpley, & Weld (2012) assessed the impact of livestock production on water quality in watershed areas, focusing on factors such as nutrient runoff, sedimentation, and microbial contamination.The researchers conducted field surveys and water quality monitoring in watershed areas with varying degrees of livestock intensity.They analyzed water samples for nutrient concentrations, sediment load, and microbial pathogens.The study found that intensive livestock production was associated with higher levels of nutrient runoff, sedimentation, and microbial contamination in surface waters.Livestock grazing near water bodies was identified as a significant contributor to water quality degradation.The researchers recommended implementing riparian buffers, rotational grazing systems, and nutrient management practices to mitigate the impact of livestock production on water quality in watershed areas.Herrero, Wirsenius, Henderson, Rigolot, Thornton, Havlík & Gerber (2015) aimed to quantify the climate change mitigation potential of different livestock production systems, considering factors such as methane emissions, land use change, and carbon sequestration.The researchers conducted metaanalyses of existing studies and developed models to estimate greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration potential associated with various livestock production practices.The study found that certain management practices, such as improving feed efficiency, implementing rotational grazing, and restoring degraded lands, could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock production and enhance carbon sequestration.The researchers recommended adopting climate-smart livestock production practices and incentivizing sustainable land management strategies to maximize the climate change mitigation potential of livestock systems.Dinh, Tu, & Smits (2020) evaluated different livestock waste management strategies in terms of their environmental sustainability, including impacts on air quality, soil fertility, and water pollution.The researchers conducted field trials and laboratory analyses to assess the effectiveness of various waste management techniques, such as composting, anaerobic digestion, and land application.The study found that proper waste management practices could significantly reduce emissions of ammonia, methane, and nitrous oxide from livestock operations while improving soil health and fertility.However, the efficacy of waste management strategies varied depending on factors such as climate, soil type, and scale of operation.The researchers recommended integrating multiple waste management approaches tailored to specific local conditions and regulatory requirements to optimize environmental outcomes and resource utilization.Milchunas & Lauenroth (2015) assessed the impact of livestock production on biodiversity in grassland ecosystems, considering factors such as species richness, habitat fragmentation, and ecosystem services.The researchers conducted biodiversity surveys and vegetation assessments in grassland areas with varying levels of livestock grazing intensity.They analyzed species composition, vegetation structure, and ecosystem functions.The study found that moderate grazing pressure could enhance biodiversity by promoting species diversity and ecosystem resilience.However, intensive grazing and habitat degradation associated with livestock production were linked to declines in plant and animal diversity and ecosystem services.The researchers recommended implementing rotational grazing systems, restoring degraded habitats, and protecting key biodiversity hotspots to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in grassland ecosystems affected by livestock production.
Ahearn, El-Osta & Dewbre (2014) investigated the factors influencing the adoption of sustainable livestock production practices among farmers, including economic incentives, knowledge transfer, and institutional support.The researchers conducted surveys and interviews with livestock producers to assess their attitudes, perceptions, and decision-making processes regarding the adoption of sustainable practices.They also analyzed policy documents and extension programs to identify relevant support mechanisms.The study found that economic considerations, such as cost-effectiveness and market demand for sustainable products, were significant drivers of adoption.However, barriers such as lack of information, technical support, and access to resources hindered widespread adoption of sustainable practices.The researchers recommended developing targeted extension programs, financial incentives, and supportive policies to overcome barriers and facilitate the adoption of sustainable livestock production practices among farmers.

METHODOLOGY
The study adopted a desktop research methodology.Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork.Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive's time, telephone charges and directories.Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics.This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

FINDINGS
This study presented both a contextual and methodological gap.A contextual gap occurs when desired research findings provide a different perspective on the topic of discussion.For instance, Ahearn, El-Osta & Dewbre (2014) investigated the factors influencing the adoption of sustainable livestock production practices among farmers, including economic incentives, knowledge transfer, and institutional support.The researchers conducted surveys and interviews with livestock producers to assess their attitudes, perceptions, and decision-making processes regarding the adoption of sustainable practices.They also analyzed policy documents and extension programs to identify relevant support mechanisms.The study found that economic considerations, such as cost-effectiveness and market demand for sustainable products, were significant drivers of adoption.However, barriers such as lack of information, technical support, and access to resources hindered widespread adoption of sustainable practices.The researchers recommended developing targeted extension programs, financial incentives, and supportive policies to overcome barriers and facilitate the adoption of sustainable livestock production practices among farmers.On the other hand, the current study focused on analyzing the effectiveness of livestock policies in promoting sustainable practices, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing water usage, and preserving biodiversity.
Secondly, a methodological gap also presents itself, for example, Ahearn, El-Osta & Dewbre (2014) conducted surveys and interviews with livestock producers to assess their attitudes, perceptions, and decision-making processes regarding the adoption of sustainable practices; in investigating the factors influencing the adoption of sustainable livestock production practices among farmers, including economic incentives, knowledge transfer, and institutional support.The current study adopted a desktop research method.

Conclusion
The study has provided valuable insights into the complex interactions between livestock production practices and environmental sustainability.Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and empirical studies, key findings have emerged that underscore the significant environmental challenges associated with current livestock production systems.These challenges include greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and land degradation, all of which pose threats to ecosystem health and human well-being.The study highlights the urgent need for transformative changes in livestock production to mitigate these environmental impacts and ensure long-term sustainability.
One of the main conclusions drawn from the study is the importance of adopting integrated approaches that consider the holistic environmental impacts of livestock production.While individual mitigation measures such as improving feed efficiency or implementing waste management practices can contribute to reducing environmental footprints, addressing the complex challenges requires a systems-level perspective.By integrating multiple strategies across the entire livestock production chain, including feed production, animal management, waste disposal, and land use, synergistic effects can be achieved to enhance environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, the study emphasizes the role of policy and governance mechanisms in driving sustainable livestock production practices.Effective policies and regulations are essential for incentivizing and enforcing environmentally friendly practices among producers.This includes measures such as carbon pricing, subsidies for sustainable farming practices, and land-use planning regulations that promote biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration.Moreover, fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration and knowledge exchange platforms can facilitate the adoption of best practices and promote innovation in sustainable livestock production.
The study underscores the urgency of addressing environmental sustainability in livestock production to mitigate the sector's negative impacts on the environment and society.By adopting integrated approaches, leveraging policy interventions, and fostering collaborative efforts, the livestock industry can transition towards more sustainable practices that support ecosystem health, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.Ultimately, achieving environmental sustainability in livestock production requires concerted action from governments, industry stakeholders, researchers, and consumers to ensure a sustainable future for both people and the planet.

Recommendations
One key recommendation is to promote the adoption of sustainable livestock production practices across the industry.This includes implementing techniques such as rotational grazing, diversified cropping systems, and integrated pest management to minimize environmental degradation while maintaining productivity.By encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable practices, policymakers and stakeholders can foster a more resilient and environmentally friendly livestock sector.
Another crucial recommendation is to invest in research and innovation to develop new technologies and management strategies that enhance environmental sustainability in livestock production.This may involve funding research projects focused on improving feed efficiency, reducing methane emissions, and optimizing waste management techniques.By harnessing scientific advancements, the industry can identify more efficient and eco-friendly ways to produce livestock products.
Education and capacity building initiatives are essential to empower farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt sustainable practices.Extension programs, training workshops, and farmer field schools can provide farmers with practical guidance on implementing environmentally friendly techniques and overcoming barriers to change.By investing in farmer education, policymakers can facilitate the transition towards more sustainable livestock production systems.
Policymakers play a crucial role in shaping the regulatory environment and providing incentives for sustainable livestock production.Governments should develop and enforce policies that promote environmental stewardship, such as regulations on manure management, water usage, and land conservation.Additionally, financial incentives such as subsidies, tax credits, and payment for ecosystem services can encourage farmers to adopt sustainable practices.
Collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, industry associations, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations, is essential for advancing environmental sustainability in livestock production.By fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, policymakers can leverage collective expertise and resources to address complex environmental challenges more effectively.Collaborative initiatives can facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and coordinated action towards shared sustainability goals.
Finally, raising consumer awareness about the environmental impacts of livestock production and promoting sustainable consumption patterns can drive positive change throughout the supply chain.Education campaigns, eco-labeling schemes, and certification programs can help consumers make informed choices and reward producers who adopt sustainable practices.By creating market demand for sustainable products, consumers can incentivize producers to prioritize environmental sustainability in their operations.
In conclusion, addressing environmental sustainability in livestock production requires a multifaceted approach that integrates technological innovation, policy support, education, and stakeholder collaboration.By implementing the recommendations outlined above, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumers can work together to promote a more sustainable and resilient livestock sector that balances environmental conservation with food security and economic development.