Livestock and Rural Livelihoods: Nutritional, Economic, and Environmental Pathways to Sustainable Development

Year : 2025 | Volume : 14 | Issue : 02 | Page : 40 56
    By

    Md. Emran Hossain,

  • Shilpi Islam,

  1. Professor, Department of Science, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chattogram, Bangladesh
  2. Professor, Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Salna,, Gazipur, Bangladesh

Abstract

Livestock play a pivotal role in sustaining rural livelihoods by contributing to economic stability, social empowerment, and environmental resilience. This study explores the diverse functions of livestock in rural communities, focusing on their contributions to income generation, food security, nutrient cycling, and cultural practices. Livestock provide essential goods such as milk, meat, eggs, and fiber, which not only enhance household nutrition but also generate revenue for millions of rural families. As a natural asset, livestock serve as a form of financial security, helping communities withstand economic shocks and uncertainties. Furthermore, they contribute to sustainable farming systems through manure recycling, draught power, and integrated crop-livestock practices, reducing the dependency on external inputs. The socio-cultural importance of livestock is evident in their roles in traditional ceremonies, dowries, and status symbols, fostering social cohesion and heritage preservation. However, the study also highlights challenges such as overgrazing, greenhouse gas emissions, and disease management, which require sustainable interventions. Addressing these challenges through innovative strategies like improved husbandry practices, genetic advancements, and community-based management can unlock the full potential of livestock for sustainable rural development. This research underscores the need for policy frameworks that integrate livestock into broader rural development goals, promoting economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Economic stability, environmental sustainability, food security, manure recycling, nutrient cycling, rural development, social empowerment, sustainable farming

[This article belongs to Research & Reviews : Journal of Food Science & Technology ]

How to cite this article:
Md. Emran Hossain, Shilpi Islam. Livestock and Rural Livelihoods: Nutritional, Economic, and Environmental Pathways to Sustainable Development. Research & Reviews : Journal of Food Science & Technology. 2025; 14(02):40-56.
How to cite this URL:
Md. Emran Hossain, Shilpi Islam. Livestock and Rural Livelihoods: Nutritional, Economic, and Environmental Pathways to Sustainable Development. Research & Reviews : Journal of Food Science & Technology. 2025; 14(02):40-56. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjofst/article=2025/view=211936


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
Issue 02
Received 03/03/2025
Accepted 29/04/2025
Published 15/05/2025
Publication Time 73 Days
332

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