Laboratory in Sustainability of Livestock Systems

The course aims to equip students with practical methodologies and knowledge regarding the main rearing techniques across different animal species (i.e., dairy and beef cattle, poultry, pigs, small ruminants, insects, and fish). The objective is to critically analyze the effects of various farming systems on livestock production, environmental impact, and animal welfare.

Upon successful completion of this laboratory, students will be able to: (Knowledge and Understanding) Describe the key indicators (environmental, welfare, genetic) used to assess the sustainability of complex livestock systems. (Applying Knowledge) Apply standardized protocols (e.g., welfare assessment, feed formulation basics) to a real-world or simulated case study. (Making Judgements) Critically evaluate the trade-offs and synergies between production efficiency, animal welfare, genetic diversity, and environmental sustainability in a given farming system. (Communication Skills) Communicate the results of a multidisciplinary assessment, justifying the chosen metrics and proposed interventions using appropriate technical language. (Learning Skills) Design a sustainable improvement plan for a specific livestock production, integrating nutritional, genetic, and management aspects.