Estimation of Poultry Waste Emission and Prevailing Management Practices in Mardan

Abstract

This comprehensive study investigated poultry waste management practices across six representative farms in Mardan, Pakistan, analyzing both quantitative and qualitative aspects of manure production and disposal. Through field surveys, laboratory analyses (AAS, flame photometry, Kjeldahl method), and stakeholder interviews, we identified significant variations in heavy metal concentrations (Zn: 32.3-112.6 ppm; Pb: 3.21-8.31 ppm; Cd: 0.14-4.32 ppm; Cr: 0.09-5.31 ppm) and nutrient content (N: 2.7-3.7%; P: 0.18-0.54%; K: 0.8-1.7%) across samples. The research revealed that 60% of farms lacked technological integration, while disposal methods ranged from dumping (36%) to composting (24%). Notably, S4 exhibited critical chromium contamination (5.31 ppm), exceeding WHO limits by 77%, while S6 showed alarming cadmium levels (4.32 ppm). Moisture content (23.5-35.7%) influenced both nutrient retention and GHG emissions, with 72% of workers reporting health impacts from improper waste handling. These findings underscore the urgent need for standardized waste management protocols in Mardan's poultry sector, particularly regarding feed optimization (52% commercial feed users), bedding material selection (64% wood shavings), and conversion technologies (40% composting adoption). The study provides actionable insights suggestion to develop region-specific guidelines that balance agricultural productivity with environmental sustainability.

 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20580674