Organic Beef Has a Larger Carbon Footprint Than Feedlot Beef

But no matter the way it’s raised, beef comes with a steep climate cost.

By: Claudia Steiner

Outlets: Sentient

Published: September 18, 2026

Words: 905

Last Updated: 6 hours, 13 minutes ago


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The beef industry is responsible for one-quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions from food production, making it a top contributor to the climate crisis. The coveted “certified organic” label implies environmental sustainability for many consumers — but how does organic beef actually impact the environment compared to its traditionally farmed counterpart. A new pre-print study compares the carbon emissions and other environmental consequences of traditional, grain-fed farming with organic, grass-fed beef farming, and reports …

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