Win-Wins for Environmental, Economic, and Social Sustainability in Beef and Dairy
This working report was initiated by an industry-led group of EIT Food Delivery and Strategic Partners focused on supporting the sustainability of European beef and dairy production through a One Health lens – connecting animal, environmental, and human wellbeing. The report was further strengthened through collaboration with cross-sector organisations, whose combined expertise refined practical, pre-competitive opportunities to deliver value across the supply chain.
Livestock sectors face growing pressure to reduce emissions while improving animal welfare and remaining profitable. Unclear and fluctuating sustainability policies and incentives make it critical to align on credible, scalable solutions. This report identifies tangible pathways to support farmers while advancing environmental and social goals.
Our Recommendations
Our report has identified the following recommendations to support holistic sustainability solutions in the beef and dairy livestock industry:
• Strengthen Disease Prevention: Investing in preventative veterinary care, early disease detection, and disease mitigation can significantly improve animal health, reduce the use of antibiotics, and lower greenhouse gas emissions as healthier and more productive animals produce fewer emissions.
• Optimise Feed Management: Implementing feed strategies that improve digestibility and reduce methane emissions and support animal health while enhancing farm efficiency. This includes the responsible use of feed additives, improved pasture management, and precision feeding technology.
• Promote Farmer-Led Best Practices: Sustainable and regenerative beef and dairy best practices must build on the knowledge and leadership of farmers. Regenerative approaches are important tools, but their success depends on adapting to local contexts and learning directly from farmer experience.
Working Group Members
The Working Group is comprised of EIT Food Delivery and Strategic Partners.
Core Contributors
ABP, Carbery, Cargill, Danone, Queen’s University Belfast, Zoetis
Additional Contributors
Agricultural University of Athens, BGI, Ceva, Food4Sustainability, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, NEIKER, Rikolto, StMELF, UK Agri-Tech Centre, University of Helsinki, University of Novi Sad, Wageningen University, Yasar University
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