Exploring beef cattle–oil palm synergies: a group model building approach for sustainable livestock management in South Lampung, Indonesia

Integrating beef cattle farming with oil palm plantations enhances agricultural sustainability through optimized resource use, manure recycling for improved plantation productivity, and utilizing palm residues as cattle feed. However, successful integration must navigate complex economic, environmental, and institutional challenges. This study applies a participatory group model building (GMB) approach, combining qualitative causal loop diagrams (CLD) with quantitative cattle population growth simulations, to examine integration synergies and constraints in South Lampung, Indonesia. Through six GMB workshops involving over 30 stakeholders, farmers, plantation managers, policymakers, and researchers, participants identified critical systemic interactions. The resulting CLD emphasized beneficial feedback loops, particularly manure recycling and residue utilization. Quantitative simulations focused specifically on cattle lifecycle dynamics, demonstrating significant limitations due to restricted forage availability and grazing space within oil palm plantations. Strategic grazing management, including rotational grazing, controlled stocking rates, and targeted pasture enhancement, emerged as essential practices. Institutional analysis revealed informal arrangements and unclear responsibilities between farmers and plantation managers, prompting recommendations for formal legal frameworks and structured partnerships. Policy proposals include incentives for integrated manure management, joint grazing plans, and regular stakeholder dialogues. This research provides valuable decision-support insights for promoting sustainable intensification in oil palm – livestock landscapes.