The sustainable transformation of the Colombian cattle sector: Assessing its circularity

Circular food systems are increasingly acknowledged for their potential to contribute the transition towards sustainable futures. In a circular system, use of finite and limited resources is minimized, nutrients in residual streams inedible biomass humans reused as inputs bioeconomy. Livestock has become relevant this narrative upcycling contained by-products grass into nutritious without using human-edible resources. Evaluating on-going national sustainability initiatives livestock sector key determine if circularity elements already represented identify new opportunities pathways future. paper we synthetize environmental actions promoted by different driving transformation Colombian cattle production assess inclusion these actions. The proposed were concentrated conservation remaining natural ecosystems, zero-deforestation intensification through silvopastoral paddock rotational systems. Circularity was addressed some via organic fertilizers manure or feedstock bioenergy generation. However, given that farming often practiced low-input where collection reutilization (e.g., manure) not always feasible, expected have impact sector. Silvopastoral can positively promote creating conditions internal nutrient recycling litterfall, biological nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, presence beneficial insects. avoid food-feed competition remain circular, should only be installed agricultural areas unsuitable crop production. crops grow, other prioritize plant human consumption (i.e., agrosilvopastoral systems, mixed crop-livestock forms intercropping) considered.