Invited paper Contributions toward a Latin American model of sustainable livestock: production, science, Innovation, public policy, and markets

Abstract

This article identifies and prioritizes key research gaps and innovation demands to support the development of a Latin American model for sustainable livestock systems, integrating scientific, productive, political, and market-based perspectives. The study is based on a regional consultation coordinated by the Sustainable Livestock Platform (PGBS), which involved more than 200 public and private stakeholders from the Southern Agricultural Council (CAS) countries. Through a structured survey and participatory workshops, priorities were identified across four ecosystem service dimensions: carbon and water balance, biodiversity, and animal welfare. The results highlight a strong convergence between stakeholder demands and research gaps, confirming a need for regionally adapted R&D&I strategies. Additionally, the work incorporates new insights towards sustainable livestock production, emphasizing the interconnection between productivity, traceability, climate resilience, and social inclusion. A conceptual model of sustainable livestock production is developed and defined for the CAS region. The study outlines actionable strategies for strengthening public-private cooperation, building measurement and monitoring systems, and aligning innovation with certification and high-value markets.