Fifth year students Una Sinnott, Pádraig Doyle and Tommy McGing from Coláiste Bhríde, Carnew, Co Wicklow, investigated whether or not Aberdeen Angus has a lower carbon footprint than continental breeds such as Charolais or Limousin.

With the help of Bord Bia and Teagasc's Beef Carbon Navigator tool, they discovered that traditional Irish breeds have a lower ‘’hoof print’’ than continental breeds. They also found Irish breeds to have a higher calving rate and consume a lower rate of concentrate feed.

The students promoted their work through social media campaigns and will continue to educate farmers and consumers of the fact that traditional breeds offer health, maintenance, financial and environmental benefits.

The group is one of the five finalists in the Certified Irish Angus Beef competition. They are currently carrying out research on calf rearing and in March 2016 they will present their research to a panel of agricultural, beef and food industry experts.