The potential to dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of Irish beef by reducing the age at slaughter has been demonstrated in work carried out by the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF), in conjunction with Teagasc and ABP.

The data shows that lifetime carbon emissions could be reduced by over two tonnes per head or 50% across steer finishing systems.

The research establishes a scientific basis on which to develop an environmentally led scheme within the next CAP that delivers a premium based on age at slaughter.

ICBF’S Andrew Cromie said: “We have the ability to reduce one million tonnes of carbon in agriculture through earlier slaughtering of beef cattle and that’s a positive for everyone.”