Factory Farming

By: Mahiba Akter 

Factory farming is one of the worst perpetrators of animal cruelty, air and water pollution and public health harm. But Big Meat and Dairy corporations spend millions lobbying each year to keep you from realizing just how dangerous they really are. Nearly all animals farmed in the U.S. (99 percent) are raised on factory farms. While wild birds have been blamed for the presence of bird flu on poultry farms, it is because of the scale of these intensive farms that so many chickens are in one facility in the first place.

It is factory farming that leads to the mass killing of so many animals when just one case of bird flu is detected. While wild birds have been blamed for the presence of bird flu on poultry farms, it is because of the scale of these intensive farms that so many chickens are in one facility in the first place. It is factory farming that leads to the mass killing of so many animals when just one case of bird flu is detected.

Livestock production releases methane, nitrous oxide, and carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change. Large amounts of manure release ammonia, which can lead to air pollution and respiratory issues for nearby communities.The use of fertilizers and pesticides can release harmful VOCs, impacting air quality.

Carbon-free energy can help mitigate some environmental impacts of factory farming additionally with the help of comprehensive reforms in agricultural practices. Shifting to renewable energy sources (like solar, wind, or hydro) for powering farms can lower the overall carbon footprint. Electrifying farm operations (e.g., machinery, heating) can decrease reliance on fossil fuels and reduce air pollution.

Additionally, comprehensive reforms in agricultural practices can significantly reduce the environmental impact of farming, particularly factory farming. Some key strategies are sustainable farming practices, integrated pest management, precision agriculture, improved animal welfare standards, manure management practices, agroecology, water management, reducing chemical inputs, local food systems and  research and education.

By incorporating both a clean energy bill as well as these factory farming practices we will be improving our earth and making it a place where people are safe and not harmed.