Australia’s beef industry is taking its commitment to sustainability to a new level with the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) 2023 Annual Update reporting a decrease in carbon emissions, more forest on grazing lands, and, for the first time, the setting of ambitious goals to guide investment and attention into the future.
Australia’s red meat industry has set a target of being carbon neutral by 2030, known as CN30, and progress towards this goal is evident, with net CO2e emissions in 2020 of 45.21Mt, 64.07% below 2005 levels.
Key Points:
- Net CO2e emissions of the beef industry 64.1% below 2005 level
- Mortality rate of cattle during sea voyages at record low of 0.05%
- Forest on grazing land increases by almost 780,000 hectares with removal of primary vegetation at a historic low
- Water used per kilogram of liveweight gain down 18%
- Awareness of Australian Animal Welfare Standards for Cattle reaches 100% for the first time.
The Australian beef industry has committed to the following five goals for sustainability:
- The Australian beef industry is guided by the five domains of animal welfare. The industry provides all cattle with an environment in which they can thrive in accord with these domains.
- By 2030, the Australian beef industry will demonstrate its net positive contributions to nature.
- The Australian beef industry will achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its production and processing sectors by 2030.
- The value of Australian beef industry products and services doubles from 2020 levels by 2030 resulting in a profitable and resilient industry.
- The Australian beef industry is trusted, attractive to a diverse workforce, a source of pride and belonging, and makes a positive contribution to the food security of Australian and international communities.
To read the ABSF Annual Update go to http://www.sustainableaustralianbeef.com.au
