Colorado State University (CSU) has announced the launch of the Sustainable Livestock Systems Collaborative – a first-of-its-kind project that aims to support sustainable, healthy and profitable livestock production.
CSU has drawn on expertise from across the university, industry, government, and other stakeholders, looking to enhance sustainable livestock systems through an exploration of new technologies and disease treatments, as well as soil, plant, animal and atmospheric microbiomes.
To address 21st century challenges while training current and future livestock industry professionals, CSU livestock and animal health experts will work alongside the likes of the Colorado Beef Council, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Farm Bureau and the Colorado Livestock Association, on top of the Warner College of Natural Resources, the School of Global Environmental Sustainability, and CSU Extension.
The collaborative will also bolster educational opportunities for students interested in livestock and equine sciences — animals which the profession of veterinary medicine is rooted in serving.
The world is currently producing more food than its population of 7.6 billion can consume, posing a threat to both the climate and the prospect of food security. With the United Nations projecting a global population of 12.3 billion by 2100, the Sustainable Livestock Systems Collaborative could lead us towards a solution that could help feed the world.
It’s knowledge creation at its best. – James Pritchett
“We’re trying to envision what society’s problems will be,” said Keith Belk, head of the Department for Animal Sciences at CSU. “As the population continues to grow and as land and water become more valuable resources, we have to figure out how we are going to still produce enough food for up to as many as 12.3 billion people by the year 2100.”
James Pritchett, interim dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences, added that the collaborative will coincide with the 21st century land-grant mission.
“The collaborative is an intentional and impactful collection of scientists, educators and industry professionals all aligned to meet society’s greatest challenges,” Pritchett explained.
“We are using innovation and creativity to pose important questions, co-create science with diverse partners at the table, and then ensure that all have an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of our shared endeavours. It’s knowledge creation at its best. Success is not only answering the questions of today but is also building a nimble and adaptive collection of talent to meet tomorrow’s challenges.”
