Cattle have been getting a bad rap as environmentally unfriendly sources of climate-changing greenhouse gases. They belch methane, which is shorter-lived than carbon dioxide but more potent in warming the atmosphere. These facts have advocates urging the public to eat less beef. But animal-sourced food also plays a vital role in global nutrition. In this episode, we look more closely at cattle’s environmental hoofprint and look at how UC Davis scientists are researching ways to make livestock more sustainable. The episode includes interviews with Pat Brown, CEO and founder of Impossible Foods, makers of the plant-based Impossible Burger; Frank Mitloehner, professor and air quality specialist in the UC Davis Department of Animal Science; Ermias Kebreab, professor in the Department of Animal Science; Ken Tate, professor and rangeland watershed management extension specialist at UC Davis; and Jerry Spencer, manager of the Van Vleck Ranch in Rancho Murieta, CA.
From the Judges
Great pacing, superb production and engaging narration holding together a solid investigative report that took a balanced look at a hot-button issue. Great variety of experts slotted organically into the narrative. Did not sound like a "higher ed" podcast, just a good podcast. Bonus points for including sources not affiliated with the institution.
