Farm-level diagnosis and adaptation strategies for sustainable beef production in Tunisia under climate change

Abstract

In Tunisia, the rising demand for animal protein is placing growing pressure on livestock production systems and natural resources, particularly under the current context of climate change. Between 2017 and 2022, national meat production increased at an average annual rate of 1.4%, with a notable peak of 5.1% in 2020. At the same time, ethical and environmental concerns are reinforcing the need for more sustainable livestock production. This study assessed the sustainability of beef cattle-fattening farms in northern Tunisia. A total of 31 small farms in Bizerte governorate were evaluated using the Sustainability Indicators for Agricultural Farms (IDEA) method, which relies on 41 indicators covering three dimensions: agroecological (17 indicators), socio-territorial (18 indicators), and economic (6 indicators). Results showed that the socio-territorial dimension scored the lowest (54.79/100), mainly due to the absence of product labeling, poor rural infrastructure, limited training opportunities, weak farmer participation in professional organizations, and restricted access to transport. The analysis highlighted priority areas for improvement, including breed specialization, greater access to grazing resources, feed self-sufficiency, and better housing and breeding practices. Strengthening farmers’ integration into professional fattening organizations, with support from policymakers, is also crucial. Finally, the adoption of innovative technologies in slaughtering, animal identification, traceability, and climate change adaptation can enhance both the sustainability of production systems and the quality and safety of meat products.