Development of a methodology for assessing sustainable development in egg production
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During the last decades several new housing systems for laying hens have been developed. Large-scale introduction of these systems, however, may not be based on animal welfare only. That was one of the reasons to start research with the aim of developing a methodology to assess the contribution of various animal-friendly production systems to sustainable development. An interactive process with stakeholders resulted in the following issues: welfare and health, environment, quality, ergonomics, economy, specialisation, consumer concerns, laws and regulations, and innovation. For these issues, suitable indicators were selected. In the end, weighing factors for different issues have to be assessed by individuals or groups, because it is impossible to make a general judgement.