Key takeaways
Demand for beef is expanding, propelled by rising incomes and population growth.
The U.S. and Europe are the two largest producers of beef worldwide.
Beef production generates significant greenhouse gas emissions and wastes that contribute to water pollution, when handled poorly.
Beef production also uses a lot of water. In the U.S., water availability is one of the key issues affecting beef production.
The production of feed for beef and cattle uses a lot of land and also drives deforestation in countries like Brazil.
Investors should address risk in the beef supply chain through direct engagement with their portfolio companies and support of relevant policies and multistakeholder collaborations. Effective implementation of a company’s policies requires promoting commodity traceability and having a clear approach to supplier engagement, verification, and disclosure of progress.