The development of a set of criteria was done by a large and interdisciplinary group from the hog industry in order to evaluate 3 alternative hog production system. The systems evaluated were: the Swedish Deep Straw Farrowing System (Vastgotmodellen), Pasture Systems for farrowing and finishing and for the finishing and farrowing stages, the Hoop Houses using straw. Those systems were found to be economically interesting for specific size production units (beginning, small and medium sized farms) and they could lower certain environmental impacts compared to conventional production units on liquid manure systems. A guide has been develop to assist the producers that want to start swine production or change their production system. This guide integrate to the decision making process the specific vision of the producer, his vision and goals for his farm and family and the elements of the different production systems.

Such type of decision support system should be done to help farmers with the choice of “environmental friendly” production systems for integration in the actual farm or when planning new buildings. Different systems with consideration of odours, gas emissions, risk to soil and water are available. To decide which are the most appropriate and cost effective for a given farm or situation is difficult with no help. The tool that have been developed does not cover all environmental aspects, particularly for gas emissions.