Contract rearing system: Economic and environmental impact assessment

This document evaluates the economic, environmental, and social impacts of adopting an improved agricultural system for dairy heifer rearing in Ireland, with a focus on contract rearing. It details low initial investment, significant reductions in energy and input costs, and potential benefits in animal welfare, soil regeneration, and workload reduction. While environmental and social outcomes show promise, key metrics like biodiversity gains and nitrogen cycling remain unquantified. The analysis draws on academic research, including McCarthy et al. (2021) on heifer health and Tozer & Heinrichs (2001) on rearing costs. Funded by the EU, the report clarifies that views expressed do not reflect official policy.