ERBS Annual Event 2025: Accelerating progress for a resilient beef sector
27th November 2024
Last month, the European Roundtable for Beef Sustainability (ERBS) hosted an inspiring Annual Event in Poznan, Poland. Leaders and experts from across the European beef industry gathered for an action-packed programme of solution orientated discussion and engaging field visits.
Under the theme of “GHG – Accelerating Progress for a Resilient Beef Sector” attendees welcomed the opportunity to delve into innovative ideas, exchange valuable knowledge, build meaningful connections, and collaborate to advance sustainability efforts within the European beef industry.
With 24 expert speakers and panelists, the event offered thought-provoking sessions, engaging discussions and in-depth interviews that brought together perspectives from farmers, scientists, financiers, policymakers and business leaders. This diverse range of viewpoints enabled the group to explore actionable strategies for reducing GHG emissions and building resilience in the beef sector through collaborative efforts across the value chain.
Panel discussions emphasised the interconnectedness of GHG reduction and nature related topics such as biodiversity. Experts in climate, biodiversity and GHG reduction highlighted how adopting a holistic, value chain approach is essential for accelerating meaningful progress. These thought-provoking discussions inspired new ideas and pathways for driving positive change across the European beef industry.
“A highlight has been encountering other businesses in Europe that show that the sector is already doing a lot on sustainability”
Thomas Sanchez, Copa Cogeca.
A standout feature of the event was the two field visits to OSI and ABF farms, providing attendees with an up-close view of sustainable practices in action. These visits offered members from across Europe a unique opportunity to experience farming in a different country, with its distinct contexts and cultural nuances. The experience sparked engaging discussions, highlighting how local challenges and solutions contribute to and shape the broader European perspective. These insights underscored the importance of context-specific adoption in driving meaningful change across the region.
The event concluded with an exclusive premiere of World Without Cows, a thought-provoking film that highlights the critical role livestock play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The documentary follows Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth as they embark on a journey to explore a complex and timely question: Are we truly better off in a world without cows?
Following the screening, a dynamic panel discussion examined aspects of the film’s key themes, emphasising the importance of communication. While beef farming has environmental impacts, the conversation highlighted the nuanced reality. There are positive aspects that often go untold, and this documentary serves as a valuable tool for the beef industry to share its true story and address common misconceptions.
Throughout the event, three words resonated “Communication. Motivation. Collaboration.” Engaging discussions revealed that tackling shared challenges across the European beef industry hinges on clear communication, inspiring collective action and fostering cooperation across the entire value chain.
For the past 6 years, the ERBS has been uniting organisations across the value chain to advance European beef sustainability. By embracing the diversity of production systems and empowering stakeholders to create locally relevant solutions that drive sustainable beef production, the ERBS is leading the transition in Europe.
ERBS members have joined forces to set bold sustainability targets and drive measurable progress. The positive impact of this collaboration is demonstrated by tangible, data-backed progress reporting which shows that together, the ERBS is reaching over 250,000 farmers.
The ERBS is proud of the passion and dedication of its members who prove that real progress is possible and scalable when the industry unites.