Livestock production and environmental health: negative impacts and sustainable strategies for a resilient future

Livestock production is an essential component of the global food system, but its intensification has generated significant environmental and health impacts. This review of literature (2020-2025) analyzes the main negative effects of livestock on environmental and human health. First, high greenhouse gas emissions stand out, particularly methane and nitrogen oxides, from intensive systems. Secondly, water and soil pollution due to excess nutrients and manure generates eutrophization and affects the quality of drinking water. In addition, the expansion of the agricultural border has contributed to deforestation, especially in tropical areas, causing loss of biodiversity and degradation of ecosystems. From the health point of view, the intensive use of antibiotics in animals has favored the appearance of resistant bacteria, while exposure to contaminants derived from livestock negatively affects human health. Faced with these challenges, sustainable alternatives such as regenerative livestock, agroforestry systems, and the use of digital technologies for more efficient and ecological production are analyzed. Literature coincides with the need to adopt comprehensive public policies that promote sustainable livestock practices, reduce their environmental footprint and protect public health. This transition requires a multidisciplinary approach and active collaboration between governments, producers, researchers and consumers.