Certifying the Sustainability of Argentine Meat: Environmental Product Declaration and Measurement

The Institute for the Promotion of Argentine Beef (IPCVA) has announced a groundbreaking agreement with the National Institute of Industrial Technology (INTI) and the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) to implement an “environmental product declaration” that certifies the sustainability of Argentine meat. This initiative, presented at a technical conference in Córdoba, aims to not only measure the carbon footprint but also other environmental impacts such as water consumption and eutrophication that occur during the meat production process.

The collaboration between IPCVA, INTI, and INTA is a public-private effort that seeks to meet the growing demands of consumers and create new business opportunities while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the meat industry in Argentina. The project involves 25 exporting slaughterhouses, each with three suppliers, resulting in the evaluation of a total of 75 livestock systems.

The comprehensive approach taken in this initiative considers the entire life cycle of meat production, including the gestation period of cows before they arrive at the farm. The goal is for each slaughterhouse to have precise information on the environmental impact of its production and be able to certify the sustainability of its meat. This innovative approach draws inspiration from the Logros de Río Segundo refrigerator, which became the first to obtain environmental product certification in 2021.

The measurement of environmental impact encompasses various aspects, ranging from the inputs used in production, such as agrochemicals and fertilizers for fodder crops, to the transport of cattle to the refrigerator and the export of meat. By focusing on sustainability, the Argentine meat industry aims to meet the environmental demands of new consumers and comply with stricter regulations in international markets.

One such regulation is imposed by the European Union (EU), which requires imported protein to be free from any association with deforestation. Argentina’s commitment to measuring and certifying its environmental impact positions it favorably in terms of its environmental footprint and enhances its competitiveness in international markets.

However, to maintain this competitive advantage, it is crucial to generate accurate and reliable information that demonstrates the sustainability of Argentine meat production. The commitment of the Argentine meat industry to measuring and certifying its environmental impact not only contributes to conquering new markets but also ensures the long-term sustainability of this vital industry in the country.

This collaboration between IPCVA, INTI, and INTA represents a key step towards credibility and transparency in the meat industry. By implementing an “environmental product declaration,” Argentina is taking a significant stride towards meeting consumer demands, opening up new business opportunities, and securing the future of its meat industry.

What are the potential benefits of implementing an “environmental product declaration” for Argentine meat in terms of both consumer information and industry competitiveness

Fore they enter the production process. By analyzing various factors, such as feed production, transportation, and waste management, the environmental impact of Argentine beef can be accurately assessed.

This “environmental product declaration” will serve as a reliable certification that guarantees the sustainability of Argentine meat. It will provide consumers with transparent information about the environmental footprint of the meat they consume, allowing them to make informed choices that align with their values and concerns.

In addition to providing valuable information to consumers, this initiative also benefits the meat industry in Argentina. By showcasing the sustainable practices implemented in the production process, Argentine beef can gain a competitive edge in international markets. With increasing global awareness and demand for sustainably produced goods, having a certification that verifies the sustainability of Argentine meat can open up new business opportunities and increase export potential.

The collaboration between IPCVA, INTI, and INTA demonstrates a strong commitment to the long-term sustainability of the meat industry in Argentina. By combining the expertise and resources of these organizations, an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact of meat production can be achieved. This will not only benefit consumers and the industry but also contribute to the overall sustainability goals of the country.

Overall, this groundbreaking agreement and the implementation of an “environmental product declaration” for Argentine meat sets a new standard in the industry. It highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing environmental concerns, while also promoting the economic growth and competitiveness of the meat industry in Argentina.