Impact of climate change on pig production — adaptation and mitigation strategies

S. K. Das*

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ICAR — Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), TEC, Shivajinagar, Pune, 411005, Maharashtra, India

This article narrates different effects of climate change on growth, feed intake, carcass yield besides contribution of pig to GHG production. It was reported that increasing ambient temperature from 22 to 29 °C resulted in 15 % reduction in average daily feed intake and 13 % reduction in average daily gain i.e. growth in crossbred pigs. Ambient temperature range of 18 to 21 °C was found to support optimal productive performance of growing to finishing pigs as they have a limited capacity to lose heat by cutaneous evaporative loss, i.e., sweating. Even heat stress had adverse effect on digestive function and reproductive performances of pigs. Methane, carbon dioxide and ammonia are released from pig slurry and found present in pig houses. Different measures for adaptation and mitigation were discussed also. Scientific housing with proper orientation, ventilation, provision of sufficient floor space, painting of roof by white paint, use of false ceiling were very much beneficial for the comfort of pig. Implementation of cooling arrangement in the shed would reduce heat stress. Scheduling most of the activities in early morning, late afternoon and practice of night grazing was advisable. Provision of low fiber, energy rich diet and cold clean drinking water to pigs were very essential to overcome adverse effect of heat stress on feeding, productive and reproductive performances. Use of anti-oxidants, feed additive, ensiling of fodder, scientific manure management, reducing unproductive pigs and use of indigenous breeds were some of the mitigation measures.

Keywords: adaptation, climate change, impact, mitigation, pig