Abstract: Good space allowance, microclimate and environment for antibiotic-free pigs

Type and Average of Pigs on the Farm

860 sows, 3,840 weaners, and 7,000 grower-finishers.

Farming System

Intensive, large-scale production system.

Description and Evaluation of the Good Practice

Piggly is a modern pig farm located in the Parma and San Daniele PDO ham production area. Built in 2016, it aims to maximize animal welfare and minimize environmental impact and antimicrobial use. The sheds are insulated for thermal comfort and feature a 35° roof pitch with southern exposure to optimize photovoltaic panel efficiency. Natural cross ventilation is controlled via automatic window adjustments based on ammonia (max 10 ppm) and CO₂ (max 3000 ppm) levels. Pig slurry is processed and deodorized in the farm’s biogas plant.

Farm Context

• Pigs
  Pigs are kept with intact undocked tails (98–97% certified antibiotic-free from birth).
  Low mortality rate: 4% in weaners, 2% in finishers.
  Good performances: FCR 3.4, ADG 850 g/day.
  Fattening phase with 40kg
• Environmental Enrichment
  Straw bedding in post-weaning phase: 0,16kg per pig each day. 2 vertical sticks per pen in fattening phase.
• Housing and Management Characteristics
  Space allowance: 0.5 m²/pig (8–40 kg), 1.25 m²/pig (85–170 kg).
  Pen design: 45 m²/pens in post-weaning, 22.5 m²/pens in fattening phase.
  Floor type: Partly slatted with provision of some straw.
• Management Practices
  Piglets are kept in large groups of 90 in straw-bedded pens. Biters are separated immediately. Good indoor ventilation and low ammonia emissions are maintained. Pen partitions allow contact between pigs in adjacent pens.

Economic Analysis

All pig houses were built from scratch after demolishing existing buildings. Investment costs: €450/weaner place and €720/fattener place (excluding PV panels and manure storage). Most floors are solid with small slatted areas for liquid manure drainage. Natural ventilation is automated based on temperature and humidity, including gas monitoring probes.

Environmental Analysis

Initial carbon footprint: 5.08 kg CO2e/kg live weight. Reduced to 1.06 kg CO2e/kg live weight due to biogas plant and PV panels.

Replicable Benefits and Relevance for Other EU Countries

This housing system allows effective microclimate control with natural ventilation, ensuring good air quality for pigs and workers. It exemplifies how reconstructing pig houses from scratch can optimize both animal welfare and environmental sustainability.