For thousands of years, humans have coexisted with domesticated animals in a mutually beneficial relationship, exchanging care and shelter for food, clothing, labor, and companionship. In the Arab region, livestock production remains not only a source of nutritious food but also a vital contributor to national economies and rural livelihoods. Cattle, sheep, and goats primarily ruminant species form the backbone of traditional agricultural systems and play a significant role in supporting smallholder farmers (Janzen et al., 2011; Jaber et al., 2016).
However, this ancient contract is increasingly under pressure. Rapid population growth, urbanization, and rising income levels particularly in wealthier Gulf states are driving substantial increases in demand for meat and dairy products. In the GCC region, aggregate per capita meat consumption increased dramatically by 357.3%, rising from an average of 13.1 kg (1961-1965) to 59.9 kg (2005-2009) (Elgaili et al., 2020). Globally, demand for animal-source foods is projected to increase by approximately 70% by 2050 (Ranganathan et al.,2018). In the Arab region, where demographic expansion and economic growth are uneven yet accelerating, this surge presents both economic opportunities and environmental challenges.
The intensification of livestock production has significant environmental implications. Industrial-scale animal farming contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), which are major drivers of climate change (Figure 1 and 2). According to the FAO, livestock systems are among the leading sources of agricultural methane emissions globally and account for approximately 14.5% of total global greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to greenhouse gases, livestock production can contribute to land degradation, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and inefficient resource use. These pressures are particularly acute in the Arab region, where arid and semi-arid climates already constrain water availability and agricultural productivity. Despite these environmental concerns, livestock systems remain essential for food and nutritional security in many Arab countries. Therefore, the challenge is not to reduce livestock production but to transform it sustainably.
Figure 1 Total livestock emissions N2O (FAO,2026)
Figure 2 Total livestock emissions CH4 (FAO, 2026)
“Greening” the dairy and livestock sector refers to a strategic transition toward environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially responsible production systems. It involves reducing negative environmental impacts while enhancing efficiency across the value chain. Key elements of greening include improving feed efficiency, reducing emissions, optimizing water and energy use, promoting waste treatment and recycling, adopting cleaner production technologies, and implementing appropriate quality and safety standards. Resource recovery, circular economy practices, and corporate social responsibility frameworks are also integral components of this transformation.
A coordinated and policy-driven approach is essential to achieve meaningful progress. Greening needs to be incorporated into entire agricultural development plans that aim to increase productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
In the Arab world, greening the dairy and livestock industries is a complex process. Innovation, climate adaptability, integrated farming methods, and legislative support are all necessary. By adopting sustainable production practices and strengthening climate resilience, the region can mitigate environmental degradation, support rural livelihoods, and build more secure and resilient food systems in the face of accelerating climate change.
Mireille Zeineldine
References
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