Further improving the environment on board livestock vessels leaving Australia

Summary

​The Australian livestock export industry has completed an array of projects aimed at improving environmental conditions on livestock vessels. Most of these studies have addressed air quality (mostly ammonia) but bedding management (washing frequency and the use of sawdust) has also been investigated. These studies have been completed over a 15-year time frame with the majority being completed early in that period.

These early studies have provided the industry with a good understanding of the issues involved. However, it is timely for the industry to review the more recent literature to identify any recent developments that may have relevance to the industry. One of the more significant changes has been to MARPOL (The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) in regards to effluent disposal. This review places this, and other recent findings, in the context of the overall bedding and environmental management strategies utilised on livestock vessels. These are discussed under appropriate headings throughout the body of the report.