Vaccination and Carbon Footprint in Fattening Pigs
Author Information
Author(s): Julia Gickel, Clara Berenike Hartung, Amr Abd El-Wahab, Julia Hankel, Christian Visscher
Primary Institution: University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation
Hypothesis
Vaccinations against infectious diseases can reduce the carbon footprint of fattening pigs.
Conclusion
Vaccination against infectious diseases in pigs can significantly lower their carbon footprint by improving performance and reducing resource consumption.
Supporting Evidence
- Vaccination against PCV2 led to a 12.1% reduction in carbon footprint.
- Vaccination against M. hyo resulted in a 2.5% reduction in carbon footprint.
- Combined vaccination against PCV2 and M. hyo showed a 9.3% reduction in carbon footprint.
- Vaccination against Lawsonia intracellularis resulted in a 3.5% reduction in carbon footprint.
Takeaway
Vaccinating pigs helps them grow better and use less food, which is good for the environment.
Methodology
A systematic review of trials assessing the impact of vaccinations on performance parameters and carbon footprint using life cycle assessment.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the exclusion of certain studies and reliance on published data.
Limitations
The review is limited by the number of studies available and the variability in trial conditions.
Participant Demographics
Trials primarily focused on fattening pigs in Europe.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website