Brazilian Beef And Leather Firms Fail To Address Deforestation

As preparations for the next United Nations climate conference, COP30, in Belem continue, a new report has found that around 80% of Brazil’s leading beef and cow leather companies, along with their financiers, have not made commitments to stop deforestation, Fabiano Maisonnave reported for the Associated Press (AP).

The study highlights the role of Brazil's beef and leather industries in widespread Amazon deforestation.

The study, released by environmental nonprofit Global Canopy, highlights the role of Brazil's beef and leather industries in widespread Amazon deforestation.

It also criticizes financial institutions that have provided $100 billion in funding—equivalent to one-third of the annual climate finance pledged by wealthy nations at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

“Although cattle is the single most influential commodity for deforestation and linked greenhouse gas emissions, the report ... reveals a picture of staggering inaction from corporates and financial institutions alike in Brazilian supply chains,” the study stated.

Even companies with deforestation-free pledges, such as meatpacking giant JBS, face scrutiny. JBS, which traces cattle to production units, was identified as the most likely to purchase cattle and leather from deforested areas.