Carbon neutral beef refers to beef that is produced with no net release of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions into the atmosphere. The Australian red meat industry has set a target to be carbon neutral by 2030, which means that the carbon emissions released into the atmosphere from Australian beef, lamb, and goat production will be balanced by the removal of carbon from the atmosphere through carbon sink. Similarly, Australias First Carbon Neutral Beef, Five Founders, is certified by the Australian Government as carbon neutral after meeting their strict guidelines. The US Department of Agriculture has also approved a program that allows beef producers to market their meat as low-carbon if they can prove that their cattle are raised in a way that emits 10% less greenhouse gases than an industry baseline.

To achieve carbon neutrality, the beef industry is taking action to reduce its emissions and help countries achieve their international commitments on climate change. This includes reducing GHG emissions from grazing management, lot feeding, and processing, which is largely centered on developing and adopting technologies that avoid carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4) emissions. The industry is also implementing various strategies to reduce the carbon footprint, such as looking at cattle genetics to reduce methane emissions, practicing soil regeneration, and implementing renewable solar energy initiatives. Additionally, the industry is purchasing Federal Government-approved carbon credits for Emission Reduction Fund projects to balance the carbon footprint.

In summary, carbon neutral beef is produced with no net release of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions into the atmosphere. The beef industry is taking action to reduce its emissions and help countries achieve their international commitments on climate change.