Scientists at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) have created an affordable, eco-friendly roofing material designed to alleviate heat stress in livestock shelters. This innovative bio-composite consists of cow dung and waste sheep wool, which have often been underutilized as the textile industry increasingly favors synthetic fibers.
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The roofing material is made by blending dung from indigenous cattle breeds with sheep wool and compressing this mixture with a natural binder into sheets suitable for livestock shelters. Dr. Ayon Tarafdar, a scientist at IVRI, emphasized that all components are natural and biological, without any synthetic elements. He reported that trials indicated sheds equipped with this roofing remained significantly cooler, leading to lower stress levels in animals, improved feed intake, and enhanced growth compared to those under traditional roofing.
This roofing solution could prove especially beneficial for small and marginal farmers who lack the resources for cooling systems like fans or air conditioning in their animal shelters. Dr. Tarafdar noted that reducing heat stress in livestock contributes to better fertility rates, increased milk production, and improved disease resistance.
Dr. Jaya Qamar, who collaborated with Dr. Tarafdar on the project, stated that this achievement is the product of extensive research efforts over several months. She expressed optimism about scaling the innovation for direct benefit to farmers once the patent process concludes. IVRI plans to apply for a patent for this technology and will present its findings to the institute's management committee as it looks into commercial production options.