The beef with climate change: Growth, equity, and a just transition in the beef sector in South Africa

The Beef with Climate Change: Growth, Equity, and a Just Transition in the Beef Sector in South Africa

The beef with climate change refers to the environmental and social impacts of South Africa’s growing beef industry. As the country aims to expand beef production and exports, questions arise about the sector’s sustainability and equity. This guidance memo examines whether South Africa’s red meat industry, particularly beef, can support a just transition by addressing ecological impacts, enhancing smallholder farmer inclusion, and promoting equitable livelihoods.

The Environmental Impact of Beef Production

Beef production is associated with high greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and resource depletion, making it a focal point in global sustainability conversations. In South Africa, the beef industry’s growth strategy intensifies these concerns. This guidance memo critiques the planned expansion, linking it to larger global discussions on climate change and resource management.

Equity and Inclusion in the Beef Sector

A core aspect of the industry’s strategy is the inclusion of Black smallholder farmers. However, the memo highlights the economic pressures driving industrial beef production, raising concerns about whether smallholders can truly benefit. The existing concentration of economic power in the sector may hinder widespread equity.

Towards a Just Transition

A just transition in the beef sector should balance environmental sustainability, fair livelihoods, and food security. This guidance memo suggests several interventions, such as sector-wide socio-ecological assessments and studies on the economics of beef production. It emphasises the need for inclusive dialogue between stakeholders to ensure that growth in the beef industry aligns with climate and social justice objectives.


A Guidance Memo prepared for Tiny Beam Fund by Andrew Bennie and Andrew Bowman