jdschultz01

My project involves evaluating the beef industry and its impact on the environment. I also want to research alternatives to environmentally unsound farming processes and alternatives to cattle grazing, such as grass-fed cattle and non-beef products. The reason that this project is important is that traditional methods of raising cattle have an adverse effect on the environment. The amount of methane that cow feces release into the environment contributes to the greenhouse gas effect, and extensive grazing contributes to soil erosion. Also, corn-fed cattle require extensive use of corn, which is also bad for the environment. Thus, it is important to find alternatives to these practices if we are to create a sustainable living environment. I am not advocating abstaining from beef, because that would just hurt farmers and lead to other environmental problems. What I am advocating is switching to more sustainable farming methods. Thus, changes in the consumer’s choices and the farmer’s practices will beef industry make more ecofriendly.