Definition of animal breeding goals for sustainable production systems

What me do is determined by the way we "view" a complex issue and what samp le of issues or events me choose to deal with. In this paper, a model based on a communal, cultural, or people-centered worldview, informed by a subje ctive epistemology and a holistic ontology, is considered. Definitions and interpretations of sustainable agriculture are reviewed. Common elements in published definitions of sustainable agriculture and animal production amo ng those who seek long-term and equitable solutions for food production are resource efficiency, profitability, productivity, environmental soundness, biodiversity, social viability, and ethical aspects. Possible characterist ics of future sustainable production systems and further development are pr esented. The impact of these characteristics on animal breeding goals is re viewed. The need for long-term biologically, ecologically, and sociological ly sound breeding goals is emphasized, because animal breeding determined o nly by short-term market forces leads to unwanted side effects. Hence, a pr ocedure for defining animal breeding goals with ethical priorities and weig hing of market and non-market values is suggested. Implementation of non-ma rket as well as market economic trait values in the aggregate genotype, as suggested, may allow for breeding programs that contribute to sustainable p roduction systems. Examples of breeding goals in salmon, cattle, and pigs a re given, and the resulting genetic responses are evaluated with respect to economic profit (or costs) and other criteria of sustainability. Important prerequisites for breeding programs for sustainable production are appropr iate governmental policies, awareness of our way of thinking, and a more co mmunal worldview informed by a subjective epistemology and a holistic ontol ogy.