Brazilian beef production, a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, emits more than twice the greenhouse gas (GHG) levels required to meet international climate targets, according to a study published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research. The research highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices to align the sector with Brazil’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and avoid economic losses of up to USD 42.6 billion by 2030.
The study projects that beef production emissions could reach 0.42 to 0.63 gigatons of CO₂ equivalent (GtCO₂e) by 2030, far exceeding the 0.26 GtCO₂e limit set by Brazil’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). The NDC, part of the Paris Agreement, aims to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, a goal already challenged by 2024’s record-breaking average temperature increase of 1.55°C.
Led by biologist Mariana Vieira da Costa of the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), the research emphasizes mitigation strategies, such as adopting low-emission techniques, to reduce costs tied to climate change. Using the social cost of carbon (SCC) metric, the team quantified the financial impact of emissions, including agricultural losses and health risks. Their findings suggest that meeting targets could save USD 18.8–42.6 billion while ensuring Brazil’s beef industry remains competitive.
Despite Brazil’s record beef exports in 2023 (2.29 million tons sold globally), the study warns that current practices, linked to deforestation and inefficient land use, threaten climate goals. For instance, 64% of Brazil’s agricultural expansion since 1985 resulted from deforestation, primarily in the Amazon. The authors urge synergy between researchers, farmers, and policymakers to scale up sustainable practices under initiatives like the ABC+ Plan, which offers incentives for low-carbon agriculture.
“Our goal isn’t to reduce meat consumption but to transform production methods,” said Costa. “Deforestation and high emissions won’t get us to climate targets, sustainable techniques will.”
The study underscores the dual challenge of maintaining Brazil’s beef industry while cutting emissions. Without swift action, rising temperatures could exacerbate economic and environmental crises.
Add comment