People eating beef are less likely to live near the industry's pollution

Research from the University of Pittsburgh has revealed that individuals who consume beef are often located far from the pollution generated by the beef industry, particularly nitrogen emissions. The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology, highlights a significant spatial disconnect between beef consumption and the environmental impacts of cattle farming. The researchers traced nitrogen losses along the U.S. beef supply chain at the county level, finding that beef consumption in one area can be linked to nitrogen losses in over 200 other counties. In 2017, beef consumption was responsible for approximately 1,330 gigagrams of nitrogen emissions, enough to fertilize 20% of all corn grown in the U.S. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to address nitrogen pollution, suggesting that recovering nutrients from animal wastewater could mitigate environmental damage while providing farmers with reusable fertilizers. The findings indicate that consumers, especially those on the East Coast and in parts of California, Nevada, and Arizona, are often more than 600 miles away from the sources of nitrogen pollution associated with their beef consumption.

- Beef consumers are often distanced from the pollution caused by the beef industry.

- The study mapped nitrogen losses along the beef supply chain at the county level.

- Beef consumption in 2017 resulted in significant nitrogen emissions, impacting vast agricultural areas.

- Nutrient recovery from wastewater could help reduce nitrogen pollution.

- A holistic approach is necessary to address environmental impacts effectively.