Question

Why are beef and wool considered to be land-intensive goods?

A. A large amount of land is required to produce them.
B. They can be produced only where the land is most fertile.
C. Cattle and sheep improve the condition of the land where they live.
D. Cattle and sheep cause substantial environmental damage.

Answer 1

Beef and wool are land-intensive goods because they need vast areas for grazing livestock, leading to deforestation and environmental impacts. Livestock farming's footprint includes loss of habitats, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil erosion. Sustainable management practices are being introduced to reduce this impact.

Step-by-step explanation:

Beef and wool are considered to be land-intensive goods because they require large tracts of land for production. Cattle ranching, for instance, necessitates extensive pastureland to accommodate the grazing needs of livestock. This is reflected in the high levels of deforestation attributed to livestock farming, which equals about 40%-63% globally. The process results not only in loss of habitat for numerous species but also contributes significantly to the accumulation of greenhouse gases, soil erosion, and alterations in rainfall patterns. In regions unsuitable for crop agriculture, such as areas with low rainfall or cold climates, livestock production like cattle and sheep ranching becomes the dominant agricultural activity.

In places like the drylands of the US or parts of Australia known as the outback, livestock farming is often the most practical use of the land. These activities have sizable ecological footprints, with the livestock sector accounting for a considerable percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable ranch management and programs to improve environmental and economic outcomes are being implemented in some areas, showcasing the industry's potential to adapt and mitigate its environmental impact.