









































Pa
ge

 
1



Pa
ge

 
11

American Journal of   
Environment and Climate (AJEC)

Environmental Impact of  Poultry Waste Management Practices in 
Jhenaidah, Bangladesh

Bristi Devnath1, Anwar Hossain Rana2, A.S.M. Mohiuddin3, Partha Pratim Ghosh4, Kazi Abdus Sobur5*,  Deepanjana Sarker1, 
Md. Muraduzzaman1, Shayed Mohaimen1,  Biplob Kumar Sarker6

Volume 4 Issue 3, Year 2025
ISSN: 2832-403X (Online) 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54536/ajec.v4i3.3980
https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Article Information ABSTRACT

Received: November 29, 2024

Accepted: May 26, 2025

Published: August 28, 2025

The poultry industry is one of  the major agricultural sector which contributes to the 
economic development of  Bangladesh. Improper poultry waste management practices 
causes environmental pollution and also public health hazards. Our study assessed the 
biosecurity measure and poultry waste management practices of  35 poultry farms in 
Jhenaidah Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh. Data were collected by the questionnaire from the 
poultry farmers. Our focusing on farmers demographics, farm characteristics, sanitation, 
and waste disposal practices. The results revealed that most farms were run by middle-aged, 
educated males. Around 77% of  the owners lacked formal training on waste management. 
Poultry waste was predominantly disposed of  on roadsides (62.85%) or in pits (37.14%). 
Waste was repurposed as manure (45.71%) or fish feed (22.85%) by some, but biosecurity 
measures remained inadequate. Complaints of  noise and odour pollution were commonly 
reported by neighbours. Continued mismanagement led to practices of  improper disposal, 
despite sporadic attempts at cleaning and disinfection through methods such as calcium 
oxide or potassium permanganate. Poultry waste can be utilized for composting or for 
biogas production to support environmental protection and public health.

Keywords
Biosecurity, Environmental 
Pollution, Public Health, Poultry 
Waste, Waste Management

1 Faculty of  Veterinary Medicine, Jashore University of  Science and Technology, Jessore-7408, Bangladesh
2 Department of  Microbiology, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur-5200, Bangladesh
3 Department of  Pathology, Faculty of  Veterinary Animal & Biomedical Sciences, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet -3100, 
Bangladesh
4 School of  Engineering Technology and Applied Science (Biotechnology), Cenetennial College, 755 Morningside Ave, Scarborough, 
Canada
5 Department of  Microbiology & Hygiene, Faculty of  Veterinary Sciences, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2200, 
Bangladesh.
6 Department of  Livestock Services (DLS), Bangladesh
* Corresponding author’s e-mail: sobur.21110218@bau.edu.bd

INTRODUCTION
Bangladesh is a country based on agriculture. Over half  
of  the population in the country is directly or indirectly 
engaged in agriculture. Those engagement on either 
through crop, fisheries or livestock farming. The poultry 
sector plays a vital role in the livestock farming system.  It 
generates fresh animal protein as well as huge employment 
opportunities (Masud et al., 2020; Sen et al., 2021; Islam et 
al., 2022). The livestock sub sector accounts for 12% of  the 
total agricultural GDP and supports approximately 20% 
of  rural employment (Sobur et al., 2024; Pal et al., 2024; 
Islam et al., 2025). Poultry sector helps to reduce poverty 
not only rural areas but also urban areas of  Bangladesh. 
Meat and egg production meet 68% and 64% of  the 
national demand respectively. Poultry meat contributes 
37% of  the total meat production (Rashid et al., 2023). 
The demand for meat, eggs, and related products has 
been rising rapidly. It is due to income growth in recent 
years, population expansion and changing dietary habits 
of  people (Hamid et al., 2017). Large poultry production 
produces huge waste. Poultry waste management is a big 
concern in Bangladesh nowadays.
Poultry waste contains all essential plant nutrients 
such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, 
calcium, magnesium, boron, cooper, iron, manganese, 
molybdenum and zinc. Those are widely recognized as 
an excellent fertilizer (Musa et al., 2021; Hileman, 1967; 
Stephenson et al., 1990; Simpson, 1991; Edwards & 
Daniel, 1992). Broiler litter consists of  manure, bedding 

material, wasted feed, feathers, and sometimes soil (Jacob 
et al., 1997). Globally around 90% of  poultry waste is 
applied as fertilizer on farmland near poultry operations 
(Seidavi et al., 2019). Litter from caged layers includes the 
same components except bedding materials. Both wastes 
effectively used in land for crop production. Poultry litter 
repurposed as fish feed. Waste from poultry farms are used 
as fuel in power generation through biogas production 
(Bhatnagar et al., 2022). Improper disposal of  poultry 
waste is increasing the nutrient contaminations of  surface 
waters and also polluting groundwater through infiltration 
(Rashmi et al., 2020). Poultry manure, litter, compost and 
wastewater are often applied to land on a large scale. They 
are typically not concentrated enough to be considered 
direct sources of  nitrogen and phosphorus pollution 
(Abdullah-Al-Amin et al., 2009). However, exceptions 
include areas where manure is stored.  Mass disposal 
of  dead poultry in landfills following disease outbreaks. 
Excessive nutrient levels from poultry litter in water 
bodies can lead to accelerated growth of  algae or aquatic 
plants which increased water turbidity and degradation 
of  water quality (Weil et al., 1990; Edwards & Daniel, 
1992). Salmonellosis, colibacillosis, mycoplasmosis, fowl 
cholera, infectious bursal disease, and newcastle disease 
are caused by inadequate management of  litter and 
biosecurity (Abid, 2022; Islam & Dutta, 2021). 
Bangladesh produced yearly around 1,560,000 metric 
tonnes of  waste from poultry farms (Miah et al., 2016; 
Arefin et al., 2024).  Effective poultry waste management 



Pa
ge

 
12

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

is critical for protecting the environment. Rapid growth 
of  the poultry industry generate large volume of  waste is 
a major challenge if  not managed sustainably. Addressing 
these issues requires urgent attention and the adoption 
of  environmentally and economically viable solutions. 
This can be minimize the adverse impacts of  poultry 
waste on the country’s ecosystems and public health 
(Shamsuddoha, 2011; Rahman et al., 2022). 
Bangladesh lacks established protocols for poultry farm 
waste management and biosecurity. There is an lack of  
understanding of  public health implications. While some 
studies have explored the effects of  improper poultry 
waste management but none have focused on the region. 
This study aims to address this gap by assessing the 
waste management practices, biosecurity measures and 
associated public health concerns in poultry farms of  
Jhenaidah. It seeks to evaluate available waste management 
facilities, examine biosecurity practices, and understand 
the environmental sustainability of  these practices.

LITERATURE REVIEW
Poultry Farming in Bangladesh
Poultry farming is a growing sector in Bangladesh. It 
significantly contributing to food security, employment, 
and economic development (Hennessey et al., 2021). 
Poultry sector supports rural and urban livelihoods and 
addresses protein deficiencies through increased meat and 
egg production. However, the rapid expansion of  poultry 
farming has amplified concerns over waste management 
and its impact on the environment and public health 
(Masud et al., 2020; Hamid et al., 2017).

Composition and Potential Uses of  Poultry Waste
Poultry waste, including manure, litter, feathers, and 
wastewater, is a nutrient-rich resource containing nitrogen, 
phosphorus, and potassium (Ahmed et al., 2023; Sommers 
and Sutton, 1980). It can serve as an organic fertilizer, 
fish feed or a biofuel for biogas production. Studies have 
highlighted its use in sustainable crop production, making 
it an asset for agricultural development (Jacob et al., 1997; 
DLS, 2000).

Environmental Impacts of  Improper Waste 

Management
In Bangladesh, untreated poultry waste disposal in open 
fields or water bodies is common.  Soil degradation, and 
water contamination are common impact of  uncontrolled 
disposal. Excessive nutrient loads in water bodies cause 
eutrophication which affecting aquatic ecosystems (Arefin 
et al., 2024; Weil et al., 1990). Poor waste management 
results in the emission of  greenhouse gases including 
ammonia and methane (Edwards & Daniel, 1992).

Public Health Concerns
Improper poultry waste management increases the risk of  
foodborne illnesses and zoonotic diseases to the exposed 
people especially farmers. Pathogens such as Salmonella 
spp. and Escherichia coli can contaminate water sources. 
Newcastle disease and Avian Influenza pose significant 
threats to both poultry and human health. Limited biosecurity 
measures in Bangladeshi poultry farms exacerbate these 
risks (Al-Gheethi et al., 2021; Hamid et al., 2017).

Challenges in Waste Management
Small-scale farmers lack awareness, resources and 
access to technology for sustainable waste disposal. The 
absence of  regulatory frameworks in Bangladesh further 
complicates waste management efforts. Unlike developed 
countries, where stringent guidelines exist, Bangladesh 
lacks comprehensive policies for addressing agricultural 
waste management (Simpson, 1991; Magette et al., 1989).

Potential Solutions and Recommendations
Solutions include converting poultry waste into compost 
and organic fertilizers, and biogas. Soil and nutrient testing 
can optimize the use of  poultry waste as a fertilizer, reducing 
environmental risks. Enhancing biosecurity through proper 
sanitation and training farmers in waste management. 
Public awareness campaigns and government-led initiatives 
are essential for promoting sustainable practices (Hileman, 
1967; Edwards & Daniel, 1992).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study area
This study was carried out in Jhenaidah Sadar Upazila, 
Jhenaidah, Bangladesh from January to June 2024.

Figure 1: Map of  the study area



Pa
ge

 
13

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

Data Collection
A total of  35 farms, consisting of  both layer and 
broiler operations, were visited. The combined poultry 
population was approximately 145250, with 36350 layers 
(25.02%) and 108900 broilers (74.97%). A structured 
questionnaire-based survey was conducted across 35 
small-scale poultry farms through personal interviews with 
farm owners. Data were categorized into demographics, 
farm characteristics, and water management practices. 

Statistical Analysis
The collected data were entered into MS Excel 2020. 
Various descriptive statistical measures, such as percentage 
distribution, range, mean, and standard deviation, were 
calculated on this software.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This study examined the waste management practices 
and biosecurity measures of  35 poultry farms in 
Jhenaidah Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh, highlighting the 
environmental and public health implications. The 
findings reveal significant gaps in waste management 
practices and biosecurity protocols, posing risks to both 
the environment and surrounding communities.

Demographic Characteristics of  Farm Owners
The majority of  the farmers were male (85.72%, 95% CI: 
70.8 - 94.4). Only a small proportion were female (14.28%, 
95% CI: 5.6 - 29.2). Which indicating a gender imbalance in 
poultry farming and waste management participation. In 
terms of  age distribution, most participants were middle-
aged (31-50 years, 62.86%, 95% CI: 45.5 - 78.5), followed 
by older individuals aged above 50 years (20.00%, 95% 
CI: 9.5 - 36.1), and younger individuals below 30 years 
(17.14%, 95% CI: 6.6 - 33.6) (table 1).
Regarding educational qualifications, 37.14% (95% CI: 

22.2 - 54.5) of  the respondents had secondary education, 
followed by 25.72% (95% CI: 13.6 - 42.0) with higher 
education, 20.00% (95% CI: 9.5 - 36.1) with primary 
education, and 17.14% (95% CI: 6.6 - 33.6) who were 
graduates (Table 1). These findings suggest that many 
respondents had basic and intermediate level of  formal 
education. On the other hand only small percentage had 
advanced qualifications.
Training on waste management was found to be 
inadequate with only 22.85% (95% CI: 11.3 - 39.7) of  
the respondents having received any form of  training. 
While majority (77.15%, 95% CI: 60.3 - 88.7) had not 
undergone any formal training (Table 1). 
In comparison, the national literacy rate in Bangladesh 
stands at 77.90% (BBS, 2024). Educated farmers are 
generally more likely to adopt proper waste management 
practices and demonstrate greater environmental 
awareness, as they can access information through various 
media, including books, bulletins, and leaflets. However, 
only 22.85% of  the farmers in the study area had received 
training on waste management, while 77.15% had not. 
This highlights a need for expanded training programs. 
Studies, such as Akteruzzaman et al. (2009), have shown 
that trained farmers tend to achieve higher earnings and 
better outcomes compared to those without training.
Arefin et al. (2024) reported a similar trend. The 
study highlighted that a large proportion of  poultry 
farmers lacked formal training in waste management 
and biosecurity, with only 9% receiving such training. 
Additionally, most farmers lacked proper waste disposal 
systems, with 69% disposing of  litter waste on agricultural 
land, which poses potential environmental hazards. The 
study also emphasized that a significant number of  
farmers (97%) were aware of  the environmental and 
health risks associated with poultry waste, yet proper 
management practices were not widely implemented.

Table 1: Farm owner’s demographic characteristics of  Jhenaidah Sadar Upazilla
Items Category Percentage (%) 95% CI
Gender Male 85.72 70.8 - 94.4

Female 14.28 5.6 - 29.2
Age (years) Young (<30) 17.14 6.6 - 33.6

Middle (31- 50) 62.86 45.5 - 78.5
Old (>50) 20.00 9.5 - 36.1

Educational qualification Primary 20.00 9.5 - 36.1
Secondary 37.14 22.2 - 54.5
Higher 25.72 13.6 - 42.0
Graduate 17.14 6.6 - 33.6

Waste management training Yes 22.85 11.3 - 39.7
No 77.15 60.3 - 88.7

Poultry Farm Characteristics 
The broiler farms were the most prevalent, accounting 
for 65.71% (95% CI: 48.52 - 81.90), while layer farms 
made up 34.28% (95% CI: 18.10 - 51.47). No breeder 
farms were recorded in the study. In terms of  farm size, 

medium-sized farms (2-5 acres) were the most common, 
representing 54.28% (95% CI: 39.7 - 68.8), followed by 
small farms (<2 acres) at 37.14% (95% CI: 22.2 - 54.5). 
Large farms (>5 acres) were the least frequent, comprising 
only 8.57% (95% CI: 1.5 - 17.7). Regarding flock size, 



Pa
ge

 
14

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

farms with large flocks of  more than 3,000 birds were the 
most dominant (45.71%, 95% CI: 31.6 - 60.8), followed 
by medium-sized farms with 2,000-3,000 birds (34.28%, 
95% CI: 22.2 - 54.5), and small farms with fewer than 
2,000 birds (20.00%, 95% CI: 7.0 - 33.6). The majority 
of  farms practiced the floor rearing system (71.42%, 
95% CI: 54.5 - 85.4), whereas cage rearing accounted for 
22.85% (95% CI: 9.5 - 36.1), and the shelf  system was the 
least utilized (5.71%, 95% CI: 0.6 - 18.5) (Table 2).
Shah et al. (2006) noted that many small to medium-sized 
poultry farms have been losing interest in continuing 
their businesses, with many exiting the sector due to 
reliance on brokers and middlemen for operations. 
Between 2011 and 2018, the number of  poultry farms 
in Bangladesh decreased from approximately 150,000 to 
70,000, representing a significant decline (Adam, 2021). 
Simultaneously, the average size of  poultry farms has 

increased, with farms now housing 50,000–100,000 
chickens, compared to 5,000–10,000 chickens per farm 
previously. This shift is attributed primarily to higher 
interest rates on loans for small and medium-sized farmers 
compared to the more favourable loan conditions offered 
to larger farms. 
Compared to Arefin et al. (2024), both studies show a 
strong preference for broiler farming (65.71% vs. 71%) 
and widespread use of  floor rearing (71.42% vs. 74%). 
Medium-sized farms dominate in both, but this study has 
a higher proportion of  large farms (45.71% with >3,000 
birds vs. more small farms in Arefin et al. (2024). Waste 
management training remains inadequate (22.85% vs. 
9%), and traditional disposal methods, like burial and 
land application, are common. Both studies highlight the 
urgent need for better waste management practices and 
farmer education.

Table 2: Selected characteristics of  poultry farms
Items Category Number (N) Percentage (%) 95% Confidence Interval (CI)
Type of  farms Broiler 23 65.71 48.52 - 81.90

Layer 12 34.28 18.10 - 51.47
Breeder 00 00.00 N/A

Farm size (Acres) Small (<2) 13 37.14 22.2 - 54.5
Medium (2-5) 19 54.28 39.7 - 68.8
Large (>5) 03 08.57 1.5 - 17.7

Flock size Small (<2000) 07 20.00 7.0 - 33.6
Medium (2000-3000) 12 34.28 22.2 - 54.5
Large (>3000) 16 45.71 31.6 - 60.8

Rearing system Case 08 22.85 9.5 - 36.1
Shelf  02 05.71 0.6 - 18.5
Floor 25 71.42 54.5 - 85.4

Table 3: Characteristics of  waste management in poultry farms
Items Category No. of  farms Percentage (%) 95% Confidence Interval (CI)
Wastes 
production/day 
(kg)

<100 06 17.14 6.6 - 33.6
100 to 200 12 34.28 22.2 - 54.5
>200 17 48.57 34.2 - 63.9

Time required/
time to clean 
wastes (min)

<30 04 11.43 3.1 - 23.8
30 to 60 13 37.14 22.2 - 54.5
>60 18 51.42 35.1 - 67.7

Waste Management of  Poultry Farms
Daily waste or waste in production showed considerable 
variation, with 17.14% of  farms producing less than 
100 kg, 34.28% producing between 100 kg and 200 
kg, and 48.57% producing more than 200 kg (Table 3). 
This variation in waste production may be influenced 
by differences in feed intake, water consumption, 
environmental factors, and the age of  the birds. North 
and Bell (1990) suggested that variations in wastes 
production can be attributed to differences in feed and 
water consumption, feed composition and form, as well 
as humidity and temperature. According to 37.14% of  

farm owners, the time required for cleaning wastes 
ranged from 30 to 60 minutes or more, while only 
11.43% reported needing less than 30 minutes. This 
variation could be attributed to differences in farm size, 
flock size, the distance between the shed and disposal site, 
and labor efficiency. The cost of  cleaning waste per day 
varied between 100 Tk and 500 Tk. The narrow range 
of  costs might be due to the similarity in labor costs 
and efficiency in the area. Additionally, 91.43% of  farm 
owners reported that the distance between disposal pits 
and sheds was less than 1 Km, while non-indicated that 
this distance was over 5 km.



Pa
ge

 
15

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

According to Table 4, most poultry farms (11.42%) 
collected waste every three days, while 40.00% collected 
it weekly or after each batch. A majority of  farm owners 
recognized waste management as an important issue. In 
Bangladesh, waste cleaning is often viewed as a low-prestige 
and unpleasant task. Among the farmers, 62.85% reported 
dealing with odor problems during waste cleaning, while 
37.14% experienced irritation from ammonia gas (NH₃). 
Farms that removed manure more frequently reported 
fewer odor issues (Bell & Weaver, 2002).  
Regarding disinfectant use, 8.57% of  farmers used 
detergent, another 8.57% used phenol, 42.85% 
used potassium permanganate (PPM), 2.86% used a 
combination of  PPM and Savlon, 25.71% used bleaching 
powder, and 11.42% used other unspecified disinfectants. 
There was no clear preference or recommendation for 
disinfectants among the farmers. Proper disposal of  
layer waste is critical for both effective management 
and environmental protection. Improper disposal, such 
as roadside dumping (62.85%) or pit storage (37.14%), 
can lead to environmental pollution, nutrient loss, and 
the spread of  diseases (Hossain et al., 2009). None of  the 

farms used biogas plants for waste disposal.  
Manure storage in pits presents further risks, with 
34.28% of  pits located on high ground and 65.71% on 
low land. Pits situated on low land are more susceptible 
to rainwater runoff, increasing the risk of  environmental 
contamination (Alam et al., 2005). Improper management 
of  these pits can lead to nitrate leaching into groundwater, 
phosphorus runoff  into surface water, and pathogen 
release (Hossain et al., 2009).  
Regarding waste trade, 77.14% of  farm owners sold their 
poultry waste, most commonly as manure, suggesting that 
some farmers view it as a simple and beneficial practice. 
Alam et al. (2005) noted that poultry waste can be used for 
composting, as organic fertilizer, fish feed, or even as fuel. 
Sarker et al. (2009) similarly reported that waste could be 
sold, used for fish feed, or contribute to crop production. 
The Department of  Livestock Services (DLS, 2008) also 
recognizes poultry waste as a potential source of  cattle 
feed and biofuel. Among those purchasing the waste, 
22.85% were involved in fish farming, 45.71% were 
crop farmers, and 31.42% engaged in both crop and fish 
farming.  

Cost to clean 
wastes/day (Tk.)

<100 09 25.71 11.3 - 39.7
100 to 500 15 42.85 27.2 - 58.5
>500 11 31.42 17.3 - 46.5

Distance between 
disposal pit and 
shed (km)

<1 32 91.43 80.3 - 98.7
1 to 5 03 08.57     1.3 - 19.7
>5 00 00

Table 4: Characteristics of  waste management in poultry farms (continued)
Items Category Number Percentage (%) 95% Confidence Interval (CI)
Frequency of  
wastes collection

1-2 days interval 12 34.28 22.2 - 54.5
3 days interval 04 11.42 3.1 - 23.8
1 week interval 05 14.28 6.6 - 33.6
After the batch (broiler) 14 40.00 27.2 - 58.5

Odor problem 
during cleaning

Yes 22 62.85 48.5 - 76.2
No 13 37.14 23.8 - 51.5

Use of  
disinfectant

Detergent 03          08.57 0.6 - 18.5
Potassium permanganate 
+ water 

15 42.85 27.2 - 58.5

Permanganate + Savlon 01 02.86 0.1 - 13.0
Bleaching powder 09 25.71 13.6 - 42.0
Phenol 03 08.57 0.6 - 18.5
Others 04 11.42 3.3 - 22.5

Site of  disposal Selective pit 13 37.14 22.2 - 54.5
Roadside 22 62.85 45.5 - 78.5
Biogas plant 00 00

Site of  pit High land 12 34.28 22.2 - 54.5
Low land 23 65.71 50.4 - 80.9

Use of  wastes Sale 27 77.14 60.3 - 88.7
Not sale 08 22.85 11.3 - 39.7



Pa
ge

 
16

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

According to Table 4, 40% of  farmers disposed of  dead 
birds in designated pits, while 60% disposed of  them on 
the roadside, and surprisingly, none used government-
provided dustbins for disposal. Additionally, 08.71% of  
farmers stated that the disposal pit was located inside 
their farm. Around 91.43% reported it being outside. 
Moreover, 25.71% of  farmers mentioned they had no 
complaints from neighbors regarding waste management. 
Whereas the remaining 74.28% faced complaints. Table 4 
also shows that 31.43% of  farmers believed that poultry 
wastes do not cause environmental pollution, while 
68.57% considered them a pollutant.
Hossain et al. (2009) and Griffiths (2004) highlighted 
that improper handling of  waste can contribute to 
environmental pollution. Poultry wastes represent the 
largest waste issue, with problems arising from disposal, 
odors, and pollution of  soil, water, and air (Sims and Wolf, 
1994; Henuk, 2001; Bell, 2002). Proper disposal of  dead 
birds is an essential component of  structural biosecurity 
(Aziz et al., 2009). In efforts to minimize environmental 
pollution, 37.14% of  farmers regularly cleaned their 
farms, 17.14% spread CaO (lime), and 45.71% took no 
action. Proper poultry waste management is critical in 
protecting the environment from pollution (Hossain et 
al., 2009).

CONCLUSIONS
The findings of  this study highlight significant gaps in 
poultry waste management and biosecurity practices 
in Jhenaidah, Bangladesh. Improper waste disposal 
methods lead to contamination of  water sources, soil 
degradation, and the spread of  poultry diseases. The 
lack of  awareness and training among farm owners, 
inadequate biosecurity measures exacerbates the risks 
associated with poultry farming. However, there are 
opportunities to improve waste management through the 
adoption of  sustainable practices. The study underscores 

the need for government intervention, farmer education 
and the development of  standardized waste management 
protocols. By improving waste disposal practices and 
promoting biosecurity measures, the poultry sector can 
mitigate its environmental impact, reduce public health 
risks and contribute to the sustainable development of  
Bangladesh’s agricultural economy.

Author’s contribution 
Conceptualization, data curation, investigation, and 
writing original draft: Bristi Devnath; Data analysis 
and writing the manuscript: Anwar Hossain Rana and 
A.S.M. Mohiuddin; Data collection and methodology: 
Deepanjana Sarker, Md. Muraduzzaman and Shayed 
Mohaimen; visualization and review: Partha Pratim 
Ghosh; Preparation of  final manuscripts, formal analysis, 
review and editing: Kazi Abdus Sobur; Supervision of  
the study: Biplob Kumar Sarker

REFERENCES
Abdullah-Al-Amin, M., Rahman, M. S., Howlider, M. 

A. R., & Ahmmed, M. M. (2009). Disposal of  layer 
droppings reared in case and impact on environmental 
pollution. Journal of  Bangladesh Agricultural University, 
7(2), 281-290. https://doi.org/10.3329/jbau.
v7i2.4735 

Abid, D. M. H. (2022). Antimicrobial uses pattern, disease 
status, and biosecurity practices of  Sonali broiler chicken farms 
in selected areas of  Bangladesh (Doctoral dissertation, 
Chattogram Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, 
Khulshi, Chattogram).

Adam, M. (2021). Indigenous poultry keeping for securing 
smallholders’ livelihoods: A case study from Tanzania 
(Master’s thesis, Norwegian University of  Life 
Sciences, Ås).

Ahmed, S., Moni, M. I., Begum, M., Sultana, M. R., 
Kabir, A., Eqbal, M. J., & Haque, T. S. (2023). Poultry 

Wastes buyer Crop Farmers 16 45.71 30.6 - 62.9
Fish farmers 08 22.85 9.5 - 36.1
Both 11 31.42 17.3 - 46.5

Disposal of  dead 
birds

Selected pit 14 40.00 22.2 - 58.5
Roadside 21 60.00 41.5 - 78.8
Dustbin 00 00

Site of  disposal of  
dead bird

Inside the farm 03 08.57 1.6 - 22.3
Outside the farm 32 91.43 77.7 - 98.4

Neighbors 
complain about 
pollution

Yes 26 74.28 60.3 - 88.7
No 09 25.71 11.3 - 39.7

Pollution by 
wastes, dead birds, 
and bad odor

Yes 24 68.57 53.7 - 81.2
No 11 31.43 18.8 - 46.3

Measure to 
minimize 
pollution

Regularly clean 13 37.14 22.2 - 54.5
CaO spread 06 17.14 6.6 - 33.6
Do nothing 16 45.71 30.6 - 62.9



Pa
ge

 
17

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

farmers’ knowledge, attitude, and practices toward 
poultry waste management in Bangladesh. Veterinary 
World, 16(3), 554. 

Akteruzzaman, M., Miah, M. A. M., Hossain, M. M., 
Jebunnahar, & Fattah, K. (2009). Impact of  training 
on poultry farming for improving livelihood of  the 
smallholders in rural Bangladesh. In Proceedings of  
the 6th International Poultry Show and Seminar (pp. 40). 
The World Poultry Science Association, Bangladesh 
Branch, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Alam, M. B., Hossain, M. M., & Sattar, M. A. (2005). Litter 
management of  some broiler farms at Mymensingh 
Sadar Upazila in relation to environment. Bangladesh 
Journal of  Environmental Science, 11(2), 446-449.

Al-Gheethi, A., Ma, N. L., Rupani, P. F., Sultana, N., 
Yaakob, M. A., Mohamed, R. M. S. R., & Soon, C. 
F. (2021). Biowastes of  slaughterhouses and wet 
markets: an overview of  waste management for 
disease prevention. Environmental Science and Pollution 
Research, 1-14.

Arefin, K. S. A., Chowdhury, D., Islam, F. B., Devnath, B., 
Sobur, K. A. (2024). Poultry farm waste management 
practices: Environmental challenges, health concerns, 
and farmers’ perspectives in Chattogram, Bangladesh. 
Journal of  Bioscience and Environment Research, 1(2), 32-
38. https://doi.org/10.69517/jber.2024.01.02.0006 

Aziz, M. A., & Ahmed, S. U. (2009). Biosecurity in poultry 
farm management. In Proceedings of  the 6th International 
Poultry Show and Seminar (pp. 223-227). The World 
Poultry Science Association, Bangladesh Branch, 
Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Bell, D. D. (2002). Waste management. In D. D. Bell & W. 
D. Weaver, Jr. (Eds.), Commercial Chicken Meat and Egg 
Production (5th ed., pp. 149-167). Kluwer Academic 
Publishers. https://doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v7i2.4735 

Bhatnagar, N., Ryan, D., Murphy, R., & Enright, A. 
M. (2022). A comprehensive review of  green 
policy, anaerobic digestion of  animal manure, and 
chicken litter feedstock potential—Global and 
Irish perspective. Renewable and Sustainable Energy 
Reviews, 154, 111884. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
rser.2021.111884 

Department of  Livestock Services (DLS). (2000). Report 
on poultry waste management practices in Bangladesh.

Department of  Livestock Services (DLS). (2008). General 
information related to livestock. Monthly Livestock and 
Fisheries Bulletin. Fisheries and Livestock Information 
Office, Kharmarbhai, Farmgate, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Edwards, D. R., & Daniel, T. C. (1992). Environmental 
impacts of  poultry waste management in agricultural 
systems. Journal of  Environmental Quality, 21(2), 123-129.

Griffiths, N. (2004). Poultry litter: Best practice guidelines for 
using poultry litter on pastures. NSW Agriculture, 4(212).

Hamid, M. A., Rahman, M. A., Ahmed, S., & Hossain, 
K. M. (2017). Poultry production in Bangladesh: A 
review. World’s Poultry Science Journal, 73(1), 1-10.

Hennessey, M., Fournié, G., Hoque, M. A., Biswas, P. 
K., Alarcon, P., Ebata, A., & Barnett, T. (2021). 

Intensification of  fragility: Poultry production and 
distribution in Bangladesh and its implications for 
disease risk. Preventive Veterinary Medicine, 191, 105367. 

Henuk, Y. L. (2001). Nutrient adjustments of  the diets fed 
to cage and barn laying hens to decrease waste (Doctoral 
dissertation, University of  Queensland, Gatton).

Hileman, L. H. (1967). Nutrient content of  poultry waste 
and its use as fertilizer. Agricultural Science Journal, 
29(4), 45-52.

Hossain, M. M., & Ali, M. S. (2009). Waste management 
in poultry farms and environmental protection in 
Bangladesh. In Proceedings of  the 6th International Poultry Show 
and Seminar (pp. 199-202). The World Poultry Science 
Association, Bangladesh Branch, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Islam, M. N., Biswas, T. K., Mostafa, M. S., Jabir, A. 
A., Sobur, K.A., Bhuiyan, M. E. R., Islam, M. S., & 
Pranto, R. A. (2025). Evaluating Farmer Practices 
and Perspectives in Rearing Red Chittagong Cattle 
in Chittagong, Bangladesh. International Journal of  
Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, 2(1), 12–18. 
https://doi.org/10.54536/ijvmas.v2i1.4103 

Islam, M. S., & Dutta, R. K. (2021). Emerging poultry 
enterprise in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. LAP Lambert 
Academic Publishing, Germany.

Islam, S., Ghosh, S., & Podder, M. (2022). Fifty years 
of  agricultural development in Bangladesh: A 
comparison with India and Pakistan. SN Business & 
Economics, 2(7), 71.

Jacob, J. P., Wheeler, D. E., & McCrory, D. F. (1997). The 
use of  poultry litter in sustainable crop production 
systems. Journal of  Poultry Science, 76(6), 1145-1152.

Magette, W. L., Brinsfield, R. B., Palmer, R. E., & Wood, 
J. D. (1989). Impact of  agricultural runoff  on water 
quality in the Chesapeake Bay. Water Resources Bulletin, 
25(4), 743-754.

Masud, A. A., Rousham, E. K., Islam, M. A., Alam, M. U., 
Rahman, M., Mamun, A. A., ... & Unicomb, L. (2020). 
Drivers of  antibiotic use in poultry production in 
Bangladesh: Dependencies and dynamics of  a patron-
client relationship. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 78.

Miah, M. R., Rahman, A. K. M. L., Akanda, M. R., Pulak, 
A., & Rouf, M. A. (2016). Production of  biogas from 
poultry litter mixed with the co-substrate cow dung. 
Journal of  Taibah University for Science, 10(4), 497-504.

Musa, U. T., Yusuf, M., & Olukotun, D. M. (2021). Effect 
of  Varying Levels of  Poultry Manure and Inorganic 
Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of  Cucumber in 
Anyigba, Kogi State. American Journal of  Agricultural 
Science, Engineering, and Technology, 5(2), 326–338. 
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajaset.v5i2.105 

North, M. O., & Bell, D. D. (1990). Cage management. In 
Commercial Chicken Production Manual (4th ed., pp. 352). 
Chapman and Hall.

Pal, S. K. , Sobur, K. A., Bose, P., Rahman, M.Z., Hossen, 
M. M., & Mowdood, S., (2024). Epidemiological 
investigation of  lumpy skin disease in Jhenaidah 
district of  Bangladesh. Journal of  Bioscience and 
Environment Research, 1(1), 3-7. https://doi.



Pa
ge

 
18

https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajec

Am. J. Environ. Clim. 4(3) 11-18, 2025

org/10.69517/jber.2024.01.01.0002 
Rahman, M. A. (2007). Development of  convenient composting method 

using broiler litter (M.S. Thesis). Department of  Animal 
Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh.

Rahman, M. M., Hassan, A., Hossain, I., Jahangir, M. M. 
R., Chowdhury, E. H., & Parvin, R. (2022). Current 
state of  poultry waste management practices in 
Bangladesh, environmental concerns, and future 
recommendations. Journal of  Advanced Veterinary and 
Animal Research, 9(3), 490.

Rashid, M. H., Bokhtiar, S. M., Khan, M. A. S., & Ali, M. 
S. (2023). Bangladesh Livestock Research Priorities. 
20 Bangladesh Livestock Research Priorities, 978-984.

Rashmi, I., Roy, T., Kartika, K. S., Pal, R., Coumar, 
V., Kala, S., & Shinoji, K. C. (2020). Organic and 
inorganic fertilizer contaminants in agriculture: 
Impact on soil and water resources. In Contaminants in 
Agriculture: Sources, Impacts, and Management (pp. 3-41).

Sarker, B. C., Alam, M. A., Rahman, M. M., Tariqul 
Islam, A. F. M., & Chowdhury, M. G. F. (2009). 
Waste management of  commercial poultry farms 
in Bangladesh. Journal of  Innovation and Development 
Strategy, 2(3), 34-37.

Seidavi, A. R., Zaker-Esteghamati, H., & Scanes, C. G. 
(2019). Present and potential impacts of  waste from 
poultry production on the environment. World’s 
Poultry Science Journal, 75, 29-42.

Sen, B., Dorosh, P., & Ahmed, M. (2021). Moving out of  
agriculture in Bangladesh: The role of  farm, non-farm, 
and mixed households. World Development, 144, 105479. 
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.worlddev.2021.105479

Shah, S., Sharmin, M., & Haider, S. (2006). Problems of  small 
to medium size poultry farms—Bangladesh perspective.

Shamsuddoha, M. (2011, June). Reverse supply chain 
process as environmental sustainability in the poultry 
industry of  Bangladesh. In Curtin University, Curtin 
Business School, Doctoral Colloquium.

Simpson, T. W. (1991). Managing poultry waste for water 
quality protection. Journal of  Soil and Water Conservation, 
46(6), 438-441.

Sims, J. T., & Wolf, D. C. (1994). Poultry waste 
management: Agricultural and environmental issues. 
Advances in Agronomy, 52, 1-83.

Sobur, K. A., Bose, P., Rahman, M. Z., Hossen, M. M., 
Mowdood, S., & Nobi, M. A. (2024). Diseases and 
disease conditions of  treated animals at Upazila 
Veterinary Hospital, Kaliganj, Jhenaidah, Bangladesh. 
Journal of  Bioscience and Environment Research, 1(1), 16-
20. https://doi.org/10.69517/jber.2024.01.01.0004

Sommers, L. E., & Sutton, A. L. (1980). The fertilizer value 
of  poultry waste. Journal of  Agricultural Science, 95(3), 1-6.

Stephenson, A. H., McCaskey, T. A., & Ruffin, B. G. 
(1990). A survey of  broiler litter composition and 
potential value as a nutrient resource. Agricultural 
Waste, 34(2), 17-25.

Statistical Yearbook of  Bangladesh. (2008). Planning 
Division, Ministry of  Planning, Government of  the People’s 
Republic of  Bangladesh, Dhaka.

Vest, L., Merka, B., & Segars, W. L. (1994). Poultry waste: 
Georgia’s 50 million dollar forgotten crop. The 
University of  Georgia and College of  Agricultural 
and Environmental Science. Comparative Extension 
Service Leaflet 206/July.

Weil, R. R., Lowell, A., & Roberts, T. G. (1990). Nutrient 
losses from land-applied poultry waste. Journal of  
Environmental Quality, 19(1), 55-60.


