Development of an innovative technology for cooling and purifying the pig house air

Livestock production significantly contributes to environmental pollution. At present, the emission of greenhouse gases and ammonia from the agricultural sector raises a particularly strong social objection.

Another important issue of social concern is the poor welfare of animals on farms. One of the very important factors affecting the comfort of animals in livestock buildings is the provision of an appropriate microclimate, especially in the summer. Heat stress is a highly unfavorable phenomenon, especially in the case of pigs. This species of livestock is characterized by significant limitations in the ability to transfer excess heat from the body. Therefore, it is extremely important to keep pigs cool during the summer heat.

The assumptions of the planned operation are in line with the strategic goals of the currently implemented European Green Deal, i.e. a sustainable food production system with respect for animal welfare and environmental protection.

The aim of the operation is to develop an innovative method of cooperation between cooling technology and pig house air cleaning. The effectiveness of the system will be assessed on the basis of microclimatic parameters and the indicators of welfare of pregnant sows. 

Project activities

The work of the operational group will focus on:

1. improving welfare of pregnant sows by improving microclimate conditions of gestation house;
2. reducing the emission of harmful gases, dust and microorganisms from the livestock building to the environment (air scrubber).

The research will enable the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions. Research and development works will be carried out at OHZZ Sp. z o.o. in Chodeczek.

Achieving the goals of the operation will allow for the development of modern technological solutions that will serve as a model of a modern and effective idea that meets the expectations of breeders and producers who have to face various challenges, including those related to climate change.

The main benefits of the project

The solutions proposed by the operational group, developed during the implementation of the operation, will contribute to improving the living comfort of pregnant sows and perhaps also to their better health and productivity.

The innovative cooling and air cleaning system will be implemented on the farm belonging to the project partner of the Breeding Center for Pedigree Animals in Chodeczek.

The results of the work carried out as part of the operation will be presented on a website created especially for the project, which will contribute to the dissemination of the developed solutions and will allow for their wide use and implementation in practice.

Practice summary

It is expected that the technology developed under the project will be useful for farmers keeping various species of livestock in enclosed buildings - both newer and older types.

• The use of the air purification system will contribute to reducing the nuisance of the neighborhood of farms for the local community.
• It is also worth noting that the use of a system to reduce emissions from livestock production is in line with current European Union strategies to support agriculture to transition to more sustainable, animal and environmentally friendly systems.