Join the conversation
During National Beef Month, we consider: What’s at “steak” in a world without beef?
In the feature-length documentary World Without Cows, award-winning journalists Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth set out to explore the complexity behind the seemingly simple question: “Are we better off in a world without cows?”
Over three years of investigation, visiting more than 40 locations around the world, Michelle and Brandon talked to food security experts about nourishing an additional billion people within the next decade, scientists researching ways to reduce cows’ emissions, and climate advocates who say it can’t be done. They also visited farmers and ranchers around the world who, like one in every 10 people on the planet, depend on cows for their livelihoods.
“There is a big number of people in the world that rely on cattle for their livelihoods. You take out those cows, then you have actually damaged the whole livelihoods for these people. You take out the cow from a family that relies on that cow, you’ve literally killed that family.”
—Dr. Mizeck Chagunda, director of the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics & Health
and chair of tropical livestock genetics, University of Edinburgh
World Without Cows invites viewers to the filmmakers’ global journey of discovery, seeing cows in diverse contexts, learning from a range of perspectives, and understanding the nuance and complexity of answers.
Through the lens of three themes — the cultural and economic significance of cows, their role in feeding the world, and their impact on the environment — the documentary examines the profound dependence on cows in many regions of the world, the challenges of nourishing an ever-expanding global population, the essential value of animal protein, and the complex relationship between cows and the environment, including their impact on biodiversity, soil health and carbon capture.
Fast facts about the impact of cows on cultures and economies around the world
During National Beef Month, we consider: What’s at “steak” in a world without beef?
Exploring cows as symbols of nourishment, care and connection across cultures
From producing serotonin to improving gut health, dairy provides key nutrients that help us think, feel and sleep better
Cows or crops? The answer isn’t as clear-cut as you might think.
Turn curiosity into action — and help broaden the conversation
Take a closer look at humanity’s profound reliance on cows
As climate change intensifies and the world’s population continues to grow, the pressure on our global food production system mounts. You can play an active role in shaping a more sustainable planet for future generations. Fill out the form below to learn more about how you can partner with us.
