ANIMAL WELFARE AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES IN THE DAIRY ACTIVITY OF SMALL FARMS

Abstract

The objective of this article is to analyze the relationship between animal welfare and the sustainable management of natural resources in the dairy activity of small rural properties, with emphasis on the economic impacts. Methodologically, this is a research with a qualitative approach, using an integrative literature review and case study. The locus of the research is a small rural property located in the community of Linha Eduardo Chaves, in the municipality of Prudentópolis/PR. The literature review addresses topics such as animal welfare practices, sustainable management and their economic effects. The results indicate that the adoption of sustainable practices that promote animal welfare are economically beneficial for small dairy farms, notably from environmental, social and economic perspectives, with emphasis on the reduction of operating costs, increased productivity and product appreciation contributing to the economic self-sufficiency of these properties.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.032-027