COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL VERSUS TRADITIONAL LAYER HOUSES IN POULTRY FARMING

Abstract

This prefeasibility study aimed to compare the expenditure and income differential of commercial layers reared in a conventional open-sided house and an environmental controlled (EC) housing system. Using equipment and standards from a reputed firm, a flock capacity of 40,000 birds with 6% extra chicks (42,400 chicks) was considered. The study showed that the investment cost per bird was higher in the EC housing system due to the installation of a tunnel ventilation system and control cabinet, but returns were significantly higher due to higher production standards and lower mortality. The study suggests that in tropical climate conditions, the EC housing system will be the future trend due to unpredictable climate changes. The document concludes by discussing the equipment costs, expected expenditure and returns, and the benefits of EC housing systems for layer farming.