Natural Savannah Systems Within the "One Welfare" Approach: Part 1-Good Farmers' Perspectives, Environmental Challenges and Opportunities.

Abstract

The Colombian Orinoquia is considered one of the eight most important ecosystems in the world. Savannah ecosystems play an essential role in providing ecosystem services. The objectives were (a) to explore and identify the perceptions of traditional farmers and institutional representatives regarding human well-being, animal welfare and the environment, and (b) to identify environmental challenges and opportunities for improvement based on the "One Welfare" concept. Three focal groups were developed: male and female farmers and institutional representatives (n = 24) from Vichada. A thematic analysis, coding with an inductive approach and the definition of themes and sub-themes were carried out. The concept of being "a good farmer" explains the behavior of the producers, where the perception of human well-being is associated with the value of the family and the sense of pride in their tradition as "llanero". Animal welfare was considered a symbol of profitability and prestige for cattle farmers, a concept that, for them, mixed traditional management, water supply, shade and feed, good health and the natural behavior of cattle. Regarding the environment, this concept is based on their awareness of the importance of conserving the natural savannah. Among the environmental challenges described are climate change, solid waste management and the use of controlled burns. Regarding opportunities for improvement, they proposed strengthening institutional dynamics, partnerships, environmental governance and education. Our results can provide information on the "One Welfare" approach and the motivation of farmers to care for animals and the environment, a fundamental aspect for developing effective intervention strategies.