Ruminants have existed in domesticated co-existence with humans for thousands of years.

Historically cattle were a major source of heavy draught power and still are in many LMIC. Their urine and manure provides nutrients to soils and fuel for heating. Wool, pelts and hides are valuable by-products used widely in both poor and rich cultures as clothing, footwear, protection and in high fashion.

Many processing by-products from carcase, organ and blood components are utilised by the food and pharmaceutical industries in both basic and high value applications.

Manure and urine provide organic fertilizer, directly on grazed land and after collection from housing or intensive feedlot systems, and on large areas of arable land in conjunction with cropping and vegetable production. They form the base for organic farming systems and are the principal fertilizer in many small landholder systems in LMIC. 

Blood and bone meal is also utilised as high-quality fertilizer. In the absence of animals artificial fertilizer production would have to double with significant environmental consequences. Livestock also act as a store of wealth and a safety net for many and are integral to the cultural identity, traditional practices, values and landscapes of many communities.