THE SCOPE FOR THE RECONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAZING LIVESTOCK SECTOR OF XINJIANG BASED ON ORGANIC FARMING METHODS

  • J. CHAI Xinjiang Agricultural University, Number 42 Nanchang Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, 830052
  • S. Bill The Macaulay Land Use Research Institute, United Kingdom
  • C. Maurizio Alma Mater Studiourum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
  • T. CHEN Xinjiang Agricultural University, Number 42 Nanchang Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, 830052
  • Hasimu HULIYETI Xinjiang Agricultural University, Number 42 Nanchang Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, 830052
Keywords: Livestock, pastoral, organic farming, grassland, Xinjiang

Abstract

This paper explores the feasibility of developing organic livestock farming in the pastoral area of Xinjiang, in order to address the problems of grassland
degradation and to promote the sustainable development of the grazing livestock sector. Research shows that organic grazing farming may
reduce the stocking rate of grassland and relieve the strained relationship between animal and grassland, as well between man and nature. As a result, the value of multifunctional grazing systems may be more widely recognized. As well as including production and economic objectives, cultural, social and environmental implications will also be taken into account. Additionally, herders may also have an improved source of income to poor rural people. The potential markets for organic products are very big and the traditional ruminant livestock husbandry systems in Xinjiang are very close to organic livestock farming. It is considered necessary to change from a production-oriented approach to farming system research to a wider consideration of the systems and policies needed to support the development of organic grazing livestock alongside consideration of how to fund the relevant research and training
and establish the systems of quality guarantee associated with organic production. 

Author Biographies

J. CHAI , Xinjiang Agricultural University, Number 42 Nanchang Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, 830052

Department of Agricultural Economics and Management

T. CHEN , Xinjiang Agricultural University, Number 42 Nanchang Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, 830052

Department of Agricultural Economics and Management

Hasimu HULIYETI , Xinjiang Agricultural University, Number 42 Nanchang Road, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China, 830052

Department of Agricultural Economics and Management

Published
2019-07-01
Section
Articles