Abstract:
Sustainable feeding methods are essential for broiler farming, especially in Sri Lanka,
where the poultry industry faces challenges due to high costs. This research aimed to
evaluate the implementation of sustainable feeding practices among broiler farmers in
the Colombo District, exam.ining the connection between these methods and farm
performance. The study explored key elements affecting adoption, including economic
feasibility, environmental considerations, and farmer awareness, while assessing the
perceived effectiveness of different feeding techniques. A pre-tested, structured
questionnaire was distributed to 100 farmers chosen through a non-probability
convenience sampling approach. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis with SPSS version 22.
The results indicated a significant relationship shows the adoption of sustainable
feeding practices. Cunent feeding practices significant at 0.1 level. Among the
independent variables, factors such as adoption of sustainable feeding approaches (p
:0.000), current feeding practices (p: 0.016) and farmers'characteristics (p :0.443)
closely linked to the likelihood of adopting these practices. On the other hand,
governmental support and prior knowledge of sustainable methods did not exhibit a
significant impact, highlighting the need for improved information dissemination
among farmers. The study concludes that while economic and environmental factors
play a crucial role in promoting sustainable feeding practices, increasing awareness
and knowledge among farmers is equally important. These findings underscore the
necessity for policy-driven interventions that offer practical guidance and assistance
for adopting sustainable feeding strategies, thus strengthening the overall resilience
and sustainability of Sri Lanka's poultw sector. This research adds to the existing body
of literature on agricultural sustainability practices and offers practical
recornmendations for stakeholders to encourage a transition to more sustainable broiler
farming.
