ABS Global has released the first-ever Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) focused on the environmental impact of Beef-on-Dairy (BxD) genetic programs—marking a significant step forward in sustainable livestock production. The findings, presented at the British Society of Animal Science conference in April 2025, show that targeted genetic selection can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in BxD systems.
The assessment was developed according to International Standards Organization (ISO) guidelines and is currently under academic review. It was carried out by PRé Sustainability, an independent consultancy, as part of the Innovate UK project. Experts from universities across the U.S., Canada, and Europe contributed to the review process.
Using real-world data from more than 60,000 BxD animals raised in UK commercial operations, the study evaluated ABS’s NuEra Genetics program. The results show that animals sired by elite NuEra bulls produced lower carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions per kilogram of carcass weight compared to animals from average genetic lines.
Key results include:
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Angus BxD animals sired by NuEra T14 showed a 4.7% reduction in emissions intensity compared to competitor averages.
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British Blue BxD animals sired by NuEra T15 showed an 8.8% reduction in emissions intensity.
This is the first LCA to specifically analyze the environmental impact of BxD systems, building on past research in other livestock species such as swine and suckler beef.
The study emphasizes that genetic improvements have a lasting effect—each generation builds on the gains of the last. As a result, continued breeding progress will further lower the environmental footprint of BxD production, all while maintaining productivity and profitability for producers.
With sustainability becoming a top priority in the food and agriculture sectors, this research sets a new standard for how genetic merit can be factored into environmental assessments. It highlights the potential for genetic strategies to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and support more sustainable protein production across the livestock industry.
