[ARCHIVED] Air Quality and Community Health Impact of Animal Manure Management

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Nearly 200 million tonnes of livestock manure are generated in Canada each year.1 Manure storage and land application tends to produce odour, greenhouse gases, microbes, and particulate matter, which can negatively impact the environment and human health. Occupational exposures of manure management have been linked to psychological stress and adverse effects on the respiratory system and heart function. Community health risks may result from poor local air quality related to manure management. Limited studies suggest respiratory and psychological health impacts on residents living in proximity to manure management operations. There are research gaps on comprehensive assessments of manure management and its effects on air quality and community health. These gaps deserve attention since many Canadians live on or near livestock farms.