Pork producers benefit from ongoing research at the UC Davis CLEAR Center, which is dedicated to advancing sustainability in animal agriculture. Frank Mitloehner, Ph.D., who leads the center, says their work covers a wide range of studies, all of which could have significant implications for businesses and their employees.

“We study how to minimize those impacts, unwanted and unintended impacts on the environment. We do the same thing on animal welfare. On the animal welfare side of things, we also study worker-related issues. Oftentimes an overlooked issue around sustainability are the workers. Attracting and retaining a qualified workforce is paramount for agriculture, not just the swine industry, but all of agriculture.”

Farmers can apply the research with practical insights, while it also connects to the broader, global conversation on sustainability.

“The concept that was just theoretical before, all of a sudden makes sense that the work we do has impact in the real world. Because normally, a farmer won’t just change what they do because somebody tells them to, but if you explain why, and you explain alternatives and so on, then they’re very willing to adapt and adjust and so on. We are catalysts as people working at the university in helping the sector evolve.”

Mitloehner said they’re conducting research on the environmental management of pigs, focusing on the nutrients produced or grown on the farm and how those are ultimately used in feeding the animals.

“These nutrients are largely retained in the animal and made into the products we all enjoy, rather than affecting the environment. So those kinds of things are important for the consumers to understand. None of this is just happening by random, but by design. There are decades of studies that really underline as to why we’re doing what we do.”

Multi-year grant funds from the National Pork Board are used to collaborate and coordinate with the Center. Visit clear.ucdavis.edu to learn more.