Prof. Dr. Irina Herzon

University of Helsinki

Dr Irina Herzon is a senior lecturer in agroecology in the University of Helsinki. Her interdisciplinary research covers a wide range of sustainability challenges in food production, most recently related to livestock.

Presentation:
In search of a sustainable niche of ruminant livestock in food systems

Key Points:
• Ruminant production practiced according to agroecological principles may have potential benefits beyond animal food. 
• Qualitative assessments demonstrate the limitations of such production to meet the current demand for meat and dairy. 
• Improvements for multiple benefits can only be achieved on a large scale in conjunction with reducing the total consumption of animal products. 
• I will describe how the concept of sustainable niches for livestock could integrate key principles of sustainability within the consumption corridor framework. 
• I will outline the opportunities and challenges of this concept in guiding ruminant production and consumption.