Abstract
Climate change poses a significant threat to human health, food systems, and ecosystems globally. Poultry farming is particularly vulnerable. Simultaneously, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a leading global health challenge, driven by the irrational use of antimicrobials in livestock. These issues are further exacerbated in LMICs. Evidences suggest that climate change acts as a driver of AMR, compounding risks to poultry production. In Nepal, poultry is the largest livestock subsector, contributing significantly to national GDP and food security. Cheaper and technically viable interventions that mitigate both climate and AMR threats are urgently required to tackle these compounded risks. Spreading disinfectant represents a promising strategy by inhibiting pathogen growth. These measures can improve poultry health, reduce illnesses, and ultimately lower antimicrobial use (AMU) while lowering hazardous ammonia and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This project will assess the independent and combined effects of a technical intervention (disinfectant spraying) and a behavioural intervention (farmer education and guidance) on AMU, AMR, GHG emissions, ammonia concentration, and poultry health outcomes in broiler farms in Nepal. In the first phase, we will concurrently do mapping and a baseline KAP survey among 400 broiler farms in Bagmati Province of Nepal. In the second phase, as informed by the baseline farm mapping and stakeholder consultation, we will design and implement the intervention trial to evaluate the effects of disinfectant application and farmer training across two study arms (each arm comprising 144 farms). The findings will inform the development of scalable, climate-smart, and behaviourally grounded mitigation for AMR and sustainable poultry production in Nepal.