GRASS-FED BEEF FOR A BETTER CLIMATE

Livestock farming is often associated with high resource intensity, a high carbon footprint and a negative impact on biodiversity. However, well-managed grazing systems where livestock graze on pasture and natural grasslands can be an effective tool in nature conservation while serving as a carbon sink. Grass-fed beef production can therefore help mitigate climate change.

REGENERATIVE GRAZING

We have about 18,000 hectares with wild, natural grasslands that we manage through regenerative grazing.

Regenerative grazing is not a new invention. It mirrors how our ancestors used grassland for extensive grazing. Extensively grazed pastures accumulate organic matter and, as a result, serve as carbon sinks rather than carbon sources.

Keeping stock numbers low and allowing the vegetation to recover naturally, prevents overgrazing and exposure of the soil, which in turn prevents leaching of nutrients and erosion.

Not introducing any exotic forage species benefits indigenous invertebrates, birds and mammals specially adapted to the original vegetation.

Regenerative grazing does not compromise beef production output, as long as you have efficient pasture management with optimal stocking rates and grazing rotations.

Gauchos herding Aberdeen Angus cattle, Uruguay. Photographer: Robin Begg

ABSORBING CARBON

Grasslands absorb and store carbon with the growth of the plants and associated microbiology. Grazing cattle also allows the carbon to return to the soil through manure, and thereby help offsetting greenhouse gas emissions.

This is why a well-managed pasture system is among the most practical and cost-effective options to mitigate climate change while ensuring high-quality beef production and good animal welfare.

IMPROVED BIODIVERSITY

Besides building carbon in the soils, livestock grazing on natural grasslands also contributes to improved biodiversity and is a vital part of Ingleby’s holistic approach to farming.

Stimulated by the grazing cattle, we leave these grasslands to regenerate naturally. We do not seed, spray, fertilise or improve our natural grasslands in any way. This helps protect them and make them a haven for native biodiversity.

N A T U R E