More Trees, Fewer Cows: The battle against cattle in Central America's forests
Cattle are the most significant global threat to tropical forests and biodiversity. Between cattle pasture and cropland for animal feed, the livestock sector covers 30% of the earth’s land surface and contributes 14% of total climate emissions. Demand for beef is projected to increase 70% by 2050, driven by a 30% human population increase and a burgeoning middle class. To address global climate change, forest loss, food security, and human health, we must implement policies and practices to promote more trees and fewer cows. This talk tells the story of cows and trees in Central America during the past 15 years, based upon an in-depth analysis synthezing multiple types of information, including remote sensing and forest flyovers.

Jeremy Radachowsky May 24, 2018