Animal welfare promotes high productivity, efficient use of natural resources, lower greenhouse gas emissions per kg of milk, meat, egg, wool and skin produced, reduction of the need for antimicrobials, protection of farmers and consumers from food-borne and other zoonoses, assured livelihoods for farmers and food safety, and increases consumer confidence in the livestock sector. Sustainable livestock systems are described as production systems that are "ethically, economically sustainable, environmentally sound and socially acceptable, both now and in the future". Pig production plays an important role in global food production, but faces growing challenges, including rising investment costs, environmental pollution and increasing pressure on natural resources. The sustainable development of pig production relies on innovative housing systems, welfare-oriented management practices and legislative measures that improve animal welfare.&.