Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global challenge threatening both human and animal health, with its impacts reverberating across ecosystems and economies. But nowhere is this issue more acute than in low- and middle-income countries, including Bangladesh, where widespread misuse of antibiotics in livestock and poultry farming exacerbates AMR risks. Addressing this crisis demands innovative approaches rooted in sustainability and equity. Circular economy, a model focused on resource efficiency, waste reduction, and systemic integration, offers a promising path forward in this regard. When paired with the One Health framework—a multidisciplinary approach that unites human, animal, and environmental health—circular economy principles can transform the livestock sector, fostering resilience against AMR.

AMR arises when microorganisms develop resistance to antibiotics, rendering treatments ineffective. In Bangladesh, unregulated use of antibiotics in animal farming is a key driver. Antibiotics are often used prophylactically, compensating for unsanitary living conditions and poor farm management practices. The consequences extend beyond farm boundaries, threatening public health, food security, and economic stability.

In 2024, I proposed a framework that underscores the critical role of sustainable practices in tackling AMR in the animal health sector. The framework identifies how systemic changes, including better access to veterinary care, improved farm management, and reduced reliance on antibiotics, can disrupt the pathways that drive AMR.

Integrating the circular economy model into animal health systems offers a proactive strategy to mitigate AMR. This approach prioritises resource optimisation, minimises waste, and promotes sustainable farming practices. For instance, circular economy principles can guide the development of antimicrobial resistance mitigation toolkits (ARMTs), focusing on preventive health management and judicious antibiotic use.

Building on my proposed framework, ARMTs are designed with farmers in mind. By incorporating advanced technologies, precision agriculture, and community feedback, these toolkits can significantly reduce antibiotic dependency while enhancing farm productivity. Moreover, circular economy encourages recycling of agricultural waste into bio-based products, further reducing environmental contamination, a critical factor in AMR management.

The One Health approach complements circular economy by addressing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. In tackling zoonotic diseases, which often serve as conduits for AMR, One Health advocates for upstream surveillance and early interventions. This holistic perspective ensures that solutions consider all facets of health and sustainability, reinforcing the structural integrity of farming systems.

Applying One Health principles alongside circular economy practices can empower local communities. Through education and capacity-building initiatives, farmers and rural practitioners can adopt safer, more sustainable practices. Equally important is the role of policy advocacy, ensuring that these practices are institutionalised for long-term impact.

Transitioning to circular economy and One Health systems offers significant economic advantages. Reduced reliance on antibiotics can lower costs, improve animal health, and enhance productivity. These changes directly benefit rural economies, where livestock farming is a critical livelihood source.

Furthermore, this transition supports gender equity. Women, who often play key roles in small-scale farming, stand to benefit from training and empowerment initiatives. By involving women in decision-making processes, we can foster inclusive growth and amplify the societal impact of these interventions. 

AMR is a crisis demanding global cooperation and local action. Bangladesh's experiences provide valuable lessons for other nations grappling with similar challenges. Integrating circular economy and One Health principles into animal health systems offers a replicable model for sustainable development.

To succeed, collaboration among stakeholders is essential. As I argued in my proposed framework, partnerships between universities, policymakers, industry, and farming communities can drive sustainable transformations. In doing so, we can create resilient farming systems that protect not only animal and human health, but also the planet's ecological balance.

As we look to the future, the message is clear: the fight against AMR requires bold, innovative strategies. By embracing circular economy and One Health, we can turn the tide, ensuring healthier lives for generations to come.

Dr Krishnendu Saha is associate professor of circular economy at Birmingham City University, UK. 

This article is derived from the author's article published in Business Strategy and the Environment, a prestigious journal on sustainable business. 

Views expressed in this article are the author's own.

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