Trends in the livestock and pork market in Poland with regard to the environmental impact of this production direction

Abstract

After joining the European Union, the market economy continued to drive structural changes in meat production and processing. Unfortunately, the functioning of meat markets was impacted by several threats with significant adverse influence. Phenomena such as the spread of ASF disease, the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union or the Covid-19 epidemic added instability to the already cyclical pork market. The study aims to evaluate the functioning of Poland’s pork market and to identify the main trend in this market. Livestock and pork meat production in Poland form a significant economic sector; however, it creates considerable environmental challenges. The study focuses on key aspects such as greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, feed consumption, and waste management. The study covers the years 2004-2021, i.e., the period of seventeen years after Poland's accession to the European Union. The statistical data analysis methods showed four to three-year cycles in pork live stock with a decreasing amplitude over time and high and relatively stable domestic demand for pork. This provides a favourable foundation for future production direction. However, the systematic changes in the structure of meat consumption and price development led to a steady increase in the share of poultry meat at the expense of pork and bovine during the observed year span.