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Did you know that cattle are responsible for 41% of global deforestation?

Why cattle?

The cattle sector plays both positive and negative roles in agriculture. On one hand, it is a leading cause of environmental harm, contributing greatly to deforestation and climate change. On the other hand, cattle are vital for food security and economic stability, especially in regions with limited nutrients or economic opportunities. Proper management and limitations on herd size can result in net-positive environmental outcomes, including enhanced biodiversity and soil health. Therefore, focused efforts within this industry are essential to promote a shift towards more sustainable practices that effectively address climate change, protect the environment, and enhance the well-being of both people and animals.

Greenhouse gas emissions: Cattle contribute approximately 40% of global methane emissions.
Land use: Roughly 80% of agricultural land is used for livestock, primarily for grazing-based cattle systems.
Deforestation: Cattle alone are a driver of 41% of deforestation, which is greater than any other commodity.
Biodiversity loss: Cattle have a significant impact on biodiversity, representing 35% of global mammal biomass, while wild mammals account for only 4%.

What are the challenges?

The cattle sector faces critical challenges. While the livestock sector supports livelihoods and nutrition security for almost 1.3. billion people, it also undermines sustainability in many ways. Among all agricultural commodities and livestock species, the cattle sector poses the most significant sustainability challenges. Both supply and demand side issues, exacerbated by increasing global demand, need to be addressed. This underscores the importance of adopting sustainable management practices to balance environmental conservation with food security and economic growth.

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BREAKING: New EU law on deforestation – hope for forests, a game changer for companies

The EU finally reached an agreement today on a new historic law to prevent companies from selling commodities linked with deforestation and forest degradation around the world on the EU market. The new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) sets ambitious rules to halt global deforestation and forest degradation through innovative and co...

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30 years of impact

Creating sustainable impact is at the heart of our mission.

People impact

850,000+

farmers, workers and land managers are assured that their well-being, human rights and cultural heritage are protected.

Nature impact

32.6 million

hectares of land where nature and environment are protected from degradation and conversion through use of sustainability standards.

Climate impact

32,000+

tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, thus lowering the climate impact.

Why cattle?

Meet our experts

Our goal to foster lasting, positive transformations in key agricultural and forestry products around the world is guided by seasoned professionals. These experts bring a wealth of practical knowledge from extensive field experience and involvement in international supply networks. Hear their perspectives on the obstacles and opportunities for progress in their respective fields.

Jennifer Mleczko

Senior Manager Tailored Services

jml@pbn.org
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Los impactos globales de la madera sobre las personas, la naturaleza y el clima requieren una gestión sostenible. Los bosques son esenciales para la biodiversidad, así como para la conservación del suelo y el agua.

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Other

Nuestra misión se extiende más allá de estas áreas de interés a cualquier cultivo o producto con potencial de impacto sostenible. Apoyamos proyectos de conservación y restauración de ecosistemas en todo el mundo y ayudamos a las empresas a adaptarse a las cambiantes normativas.

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We work with businesses on all aspects of their sustainability journey

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Strengthen your organisation’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing impactful business transformations.

Sustainability advisory services

With over 30 years of experience in sustainability, our experts can support you in enhancing your sustainability journey.

Expert courses

Engage in impactful training experiences through our programmes, project-specific sessions, or bespoke courses upon request.
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