Implementing effective service economy strategies to reduce fluoride uptake in clover fodder: Risk management in livestock

Purpose: Fluoride pollution in agricultural environments, particularly from industrial activities such as brick kilns, poses significant risks to crop yield and livestock health. This study investigates the impact of fluoride pollution on clover fodder, a critical feed source for livestock in the Peshawar region of Pakistan, and explores strategies to mitigate fluoride uptake using calcium amendments. Clover, specifically Persian clover (Trifolium resupinatum L.), is prone to accumulating high fluoride content, exacerbated by nearby brick kilns emitting hydrogen fluoride (HF). This accumulation poses a risk of fluorosis in livestock consuming the contaminated fodder. Methodology: A pot experiment was conducted to assess the effectiveness of adding calcium carbonate (CaC03)at varying concentrations (0, 20, 40, and 60 Hg/kg) to reduce fluoride uptake in clover. The study spanned three months, with plants harvested every four weeks to measure fluoride levels. Results: Showed that increasing soil calcium significantly reduced fluoride content in clover leaves. At 60 Hg/kg CaCO3, fluoride concentration decreased to 22 Hg/kg from an initial 60 Hg/kg at 0 Hg/kg CaCO3. This reduction was consistent over 12 weeks, demonstrating the potential of calcium amendments to mitigate fluoride uptake. Additionally, a survey of farmers and agricultural extension workers in the affected areas revealed a lack of awareness and mitigation strategies for fluoride pollution. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for policy interventions and educational programs to address fluoride pollution in agricultural systems. Implementing efective service economy strategies, such as providing subsidies for calcium amendments and conducting workshops on pollution management, can help reduce fluoride levels in fodder crops and safeguard livestock health. This study underscores the importance of collaborative eforts between government and local communities to develop sustainable solutions for managing fluoride pollution in agriculture. © 2024, International Society for Fluoride Research. All rights reserved.