In this re-released episode, the host digs deep into the water usage of beef production, challenging the common belief that beef is a water hog. They explore the impact of cattle feed, grazing practices, and compare water usage between pasture-based and feedlot systems. The episode also dives into the environmental benefits of grass-based pasture-based systems and argues for a holistic approach in assessing water use in food production.
Beef's water footprint is primarily attributed to feed, with drinking water and processing making negligible contributions.
Comparing water usage across different foods requires considering factors like nutrient density and the whole water cycle, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to evaluate sustainability.
Deep dives
Beef's water footprint and the 1800 gallon number
The popular claim that it takes 1800 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef is often cited, but its origin comes from a 2010 study by UNESCO which isn't widely replicated. The study reveals that 99% of beef's water footprint comes from feed, while drinking water and processing have negligible contributions. Moreover, the water used for beef production is predominantly green water, which mainly refers to rainwater falling on pasture and grasslands. This distinction is rarely highlighted in discussions about beef and water. In the US, where beef production practices differ from the global average, pasture-based systems minimize blue water use, which is more scarce. Therefore, claims of high water usage should be considered in context and recognize the efficiency of different beef production systems.
Comparing water use across different foods
When comparing water usage across different foods, it's important to consider factors like nutrient density and the whole water cycle. While beef may have a higher overall water footprint than certain foods like nuts or fruits and vegetables, it uses significantly less blue water, which is more impactful on water resources. Additionally, practices such as irrigating fruits and vegetables year-round in the desert, compared to raising cattle in suitable grazing landscapes, highlight the complexity of water usage. Instead of solely comparing food on a single metric, a more holistic approach is needed to evaluate sustainability across various aspects.
Efficiency in beef production and the role of management systems
Efficiency in beef production varies based on factors such as genetics, management systems, and feedlot operations. While confinement-based systems can be more resource-efficient on paper, they often rely on concentrated inputs and can generate higher pollution levels. On the other hand, pasture-based systems, though using more overall resources, contribute to a healthier water cycle and localized nutrient cycling. The importance lies in improving management practices, such as better manure management, rather than demonizing beef cattle or traditional production methods. Understanding these nuances will lead to a more comprehensive and informed perspective on beef's water usage.
*This is a re-release of Episode 2, Does Beef Waste Water?*
We’ve all heard that beef is a water hog, often enough that it’s considered common knowledge. Caroline goes to the source - a UNESCO study - to see what we can unpack about that claim. Holes are poked, rants are ranted, and nuance is added.
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@chewswiselypodcast
@bigskycaroline
You can reach us at chewswiselypodcast@gmail.com
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