Climate Change and Its Effects on Dairy Cows in Fiji: a Call for Climate Action
Authors: Igbal Mohammed Rasheed , Iqbaal Ubaadah Bin , Lutta Harrison Osundwa , Sagero Philip Obaigwa , Magiri Royford Bundi 
Published: December 2024

Objective: This abstract examines the interrelationship of climate change and dairy production systems, highlighting its impact on ongoing climate shifts. While the dairy industry is recognized for contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, there remains a critical knowledge gap regarding the sensitivity and susceptibility of these systems in the framework of global warming. This assessment emphasizes the multifaceted effects and formidable challenges that emerge from climate change's impact on dairy cows, particularly in Fiji. The escalating occurrence of heat stress among dairy cows, a direct consequence of rising temperatures and altered climatic patterns, is of paramount concern. The intricate relationship between climate variables and dairy cow well-being, particularly milk production, emerges as a central focal point. By spotlighting the ramifications of climate change on dairy cattle in Fiji, this abstract seeks to elevate the discourse on sustainable dairy farming practices and underscores the urgent need to develop adaptive strategies to address these challenges.

Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework centres on the impact of climate change on dairy production systems, particularly focusing on heat stress among dairy cows in Fiji. It considers the interconnections between climate variables, such as temperature fluctuations and atmospheric CO₂ levels, and their effects on milk production, feed quality, water availability, and disease prevalence. This framework builds on climate change models (like those from the IPCC) and agricultural adaptation theories to explore how these environmental factors disrupt dairy farming operations and animal health.

Method: The paper synthesizes findings from existing literature and research, using a literature review methodology. It compiles data and insights from various studies on climate change's effects on livestock, drawing from regional and international studies to understand how climate shifts impact dairy cows. The method involves analyzing specific impacts on feed, water usage, disease dynamics, and heat stress, aiming to provide a holistic understanding of how these factors interact under Fiji's unique climate conditions.

Results and Discussion: Impact on Feed and Water: The paper highlights that higher temperatures and CO₂ levels affect the quality and quantity of forage, with implications for feed availability and livestock diet. Increased water demand under heat stress also puts pressure on water resources, critical for dairy cows’ hydration and metabolic processes.
Disease and Heat Stress: Rising temperatures are linked to increased disease susceptibility and vector-borne diseases in livestock. Heat stress is particularly detrimental, reducing milk production and reproductive efficiency.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Dairy cows contribute to methane and nitrous oxide emissions, exacerbating climate change. The study discusses how dairy farming in Fiji must balance productivity with reducing its environmental footprint.
Adaptation Strategies: Suggested strategies include altering feed practices, adopting new management systems (like agroforestry), and improving shelter and cooling systems to reduce heat stress and its impacts on dairy production.

Research Implications: The research provides important insights into sustainable dairy farming in Fiji. Its findings encourage policies and practices focused on climate adaptation, especially in mitigating heat stress and water scarcity issues. By emphasizing the need for climate-resilient livestock management, the study calls for continued research and investment in sustainable agriculture to secure Fiji's dairy industry against climate-related disruptions.

Originality/Value: This study uniquely examines the specific effects of climate change on dairy cows in Fiji, a region often overlooked in global agricultural research. Its value lies in highlighting the vulnerabilities of Pacific Island livestock systems to climate change, offering targeted recommendations for resilience-building in dairy production under changing environmental conditions.