The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) attended the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Sub-Committee on Livestock meetings in Rome on July 16-18, 2024.
The discussions at these meetings underscored the positive role of livestock in our environment, diets, and economies. Representing the CCA were Bob Lowe, CCA Past President and President of the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (GRSB), and CCA Policy, Programs and Engagement Manager, Jessica Radau.
Participating in these international settings is important to ensure the voice of Canada’s beef farmers and ranchers is heard when global recommendations are set that have the potential to impact the sustainability of the industry and its contributions to climate and food security solutions. Engaging in these various international forums allows proactive monitoring of international recommendations and commitments that trickle down to the country level.
Discussed at this July FAO livestock meeting was the creation of a Global Action Plan for Sustainable Livestock Transformation to accelerate the livestock sector and its contributions to achieving the UN’s sustainable development goals. Drafting of this plan is expected to be completed early next year, with regional consultations starting in fall 2025. CCA will seek to work collaboratively with our Canadian government in this process to ensure recommendations are attainable and aligned with our industry’s priorities.
Another highlight was the opportunity for Bob Lowe to participate on a side event panel about the synergy between animal agriculture and soil health. It was positive to see livestock recognized as a vital part of the solution in building sustainable food systems – recognition that is built over time by continuing to show up and be part of the conversation.
You can view a clip of the presentation below, or CLICK HERE to watch the full side event.
The meeting also provided great opportunities to form relationships with the exceptional talent and knowledge from around the world in sustainable livestock production. Valuable discussions were had with Canadian government representatives participating in these meetings about aligned priorities and how Canada can continue to be a leader in sustainable livestock production.
Local actions and solutions are essential to drive sustainable outcomes on a global scale. Canada is a leader in sustainable beef production, as evidenced by a 15 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per kilogram of beef produced (boneless and consumed) between 2014 and 2021. This report, released earlier this year through the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) National Beef Sustainability Assessment, shows the Canadian beef industry is well on its way to meeting its 2030 goals for GHG emissions.
Stay tuned for more updates as the CCA continues to advocate for sustainable beef production and represent the interests of Canadian farmers and ranchers on the global stage.
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