ABSTRACT
Livestock manure has long been valued as an agricultural fertilizer, but its significance is now overshadowed by a serious concern – the widespread presence of antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs). These ARGs, found abundantly in manure, soil, and water, pose a direct threat by contributing to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria due to the extensive use of antibiotics in livestock farming. This research article delves into the scientific evidence linking the application of livestock manure to the dissemination of ARGs in agricultural lands and the grave consequences for public health and the environment. The problem of antibiotic and ARG pervasiveness extends beyond manure, evident in surface water, sewage treatment plant effluent, soils, and animal waste. Unregulated antibiotic use in animal feed has led to a global health crisis as antibiotic-resistant bacteria become increasingly prevalent. Applying manure to agricultural soils creates a breeding ground for these pathogenic entities, posing a significant threat to human well-being. Over half of the veterinary antibiotics released into the environment end up in the soil, where they undergo complex processes, impacting soil microorganisms. The article highlights the potential transfer of resistance DNA from animal manure to the soil, further emphasizing the risks associated with the propagation of antibiotic resistance. The research stresses the need for a proactive and responsible approach to agricultural practices as the quest for sustainable solutions becomes crucial to safeguarding human health and the environment. Understanding the intricate complexities of this pressing issue is essential in addressing the challenges of antibiotic resistance and its potential consequences.
