Updated report unveiled on Earth Day shows pig farmers decreased their carbon footprint by 7.7% and their water use by 25.1% from 1960 to 2015.

April 22, 2020

1 Min Read
A farmer practicing good manure management.
National Pork Board

The Animal Agriculture Alliance has released its updated "Sustainability Impact Report" in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. The report highlights how the animal agriculture industry shares the same values as today's consumer with its never-ending commitment to environmental stewardship, animal care, responsible antibiotic use, food safety and nutrition. 

The 33-page report covers nine sectors of animal agriculture: dairy, beef, veal, pork, chicken, turkey, egg, sheep and aquaculture. "As the world celebrates Earth Day, we want to shine a light on the farmers and ranchers who treat every day like Earth Day," says Kay Johnson Smith, Alliance president and CEO. "The animal agriculture community is constantly evolving and looking for innovative ways to improve the environmental sustainably of farming and ranching."

The report contains valuable insights into animal agriculture's dedication to continuous improvement, including the following environmental stewardship highlights:

  • According to the Environmental Protection Agency, agriculture accounts for a total of 9% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions while livestock production is only 3.9%.

  • Dairy farmers decreased their carbon footprint by 63% from 1944 to 2007.

  • Since 1977, cattle ranchers have reduced their carbon footprint by 16%.

  • Pig farmers decreased their carbon footprint by 7.7% and their water use by 25.1% from 1960 to 2015.

  • The egg industry reduced its carbon footprint by 71% and its water use by 32% since 1960.

  • Producing the same amount of chicken today as 1965 has 50% less impact on the environment.

In addition to the updated report, the Alliance has additional sustainability resources available within its website and Resource Center, including links to new research, social media images and infographics.

Source: Animal Agriculture Alliance, which is solely responsible for the information provided, and wholly owns the information. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.

Subscribe to Our Newsletters
National Hog Farmer is the source for hog production, management and market news

You May Also Like