It’s Complex: What is African Swine Fever’s Toll on the Environment?

A significant knowledge gap exists around the environmental impacts of African swine fever (ASF), particularly in terms of carcass disposal and the pollution risks associated with it, says Mikayla Schlosser, a student at University of Minnesota’s Veterinary School.

Her study sought deeper understanding of the environmental impacts of ASF, particularly in response to practices such as mass depopulations and carcass disposal in the Philippines.

“ASF has significantly affected swine populations and economies globally since its emergence, but there is limited research on its environmental effects,” Schlosser says.

To fill this gap, Schlosser and colleagues with the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety at the University of Minnesota conducted a scoping review of existing literature on the environmental impacts of ASF, finding minimal literature relevant. Then, they conducted an exploratory, qualitative systems mapping exercise with 18 private and public veterinarians in the Philippines who have experience with ASF response efforts.