Goals

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“In January 2021, we set out to establish a set of sustainability goals that would inspire progress within the U.S. cattle production community. These goals are producer-focused and science-based. We know that U.S. beef is the most sustainable in the world, and that we’ll only continue to improve. It’s time to carry that message to the rest of the world.”

– Marty Smith, Past President, Sustainability Goals Task Force Chairman, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Care for Our Animals & Land

SOCIAL GOAL

Enhance trust in cattle producers as responsible stewards of their animals and resources by expanding educational opportunities in animal care and handling programs to further improve animal well-being.

Care for Our People

SOCIAL GOAL

Continuously improve our industry’s workforce safety and well-being.

Care for Our Planet

ENVIRONMENTAL GOAL

Demonstrate the climate neutrality of U.S. cattle production by 2040.

Build Our Resiliency

ECONOMIC GOAL

Create and enhance opportunities that result in a quantifiable increase in producer profitability and economic sustainability by 2025.

2023 Sustainability Forum: Finding Balance and Seeking

A dynamic panel of producers, experts, and industry leaders explores how environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social responsibility come together to shape the beef industry’s path toward continual improvement and long-term sustainability.

2024 Sustainability Forum: Demystifying Climate Impacts and Strengthening the Producer Narrative

Hear from renowned climate scientist, Dr. Myles Allen, and a producer-driven panel explores the latest science on cattle’s true warming impacts and highlight how meaningful action, innovation, and storytelling can shape the beef industry’s sustainability future.

2025 Sustainability Forum: Building Resilience Through Written Grazing Management Plans

This panel explores progress toward the beef industry’s sustainability goals and how written grazing management plans can strengthen operational resilience, support supply chain expectations, and equip producers to drive sustainability forward.

2026 Sustainability Forum: Legacy in Action – Succession Planning for Long-Term Sustainability

Hear from a panel of producers, experts, and a succession-planning specialist explores practical strategies, legal tools, and real-world experiences to help ranching families secure their business, land, and legacy for the next generation.