Summary
This narrative review synthesises the potential of camel production systems to support circular bioeconomy principles in arid and semi-arid regions. The paper examines how camels' physiological adaptations enable efficient utilisation of marginal feed resources (crop residues, halophytic vegetation, agro-industrial by-products) unsuitable for human consumption, alongside opportunities for manure valorization, product diversification, and improved sustainability outcomes. The review draws evidence from North Africa, the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, the Sahel, Australia, and Central Asia, identifying research priorities for enhancing the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of camel production in drylands.
Regional applicability
This review focuses primarily on arid and semi-arid regions in Africa, Asia, and Australia where camel production is established. Application to the United Kingdom is limited, though the conceptual framework of circular bioeconomy principles and waste valorization may inform UK livestock and land management policy in marginal dryland areas, should climate conditions shift or camel husbandry be considered for resilience.
Key measures
Feed resource utilization efficiency, manure and processing residue valorization, camel-derived product value-addition, environmental and social sustainability indicators, resource-use efficiency metrics
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises evidence on how camel production systems contribute to circular bioeconomy principles through feed resource valorization, waste utilization, product diversification, and environmental sustainability across arid and semi-arid regions. It identifies key research gaps and priorities for integrating camel production into sustainable dryland farming systems.
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