MLA launches Environmental Credentials platform at Beef Australia

The new Environmental Credentials platform for Australia’s red meat industry was launched this week at Beef Australia in Rockhampton.

The new platform, developed and released by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), provides red meat producers with a tool to collect their environmental sustainability data, engage in learning and share their credentials across the supply chain.

This project was funded by a Federal Government Smart Farming Partnerships grant and developed by a consortium including WWF Australia and the University of Queensland. It allows producers to demonstrate their sustainable on-farm practices to end users such as processors, retailers, banks or governments.

According to MLA’s project manager for environmental markets and sustainability, Jenny Lim, more than 50 beef producers and supply chain participants were involved in designing the platform.

“During this consultation phase, five key themes were identified based on the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF). They were biodiversity, land cover, tree cover, carbon balance and drought resilience,” Ms Lim said.

“The group has clearly stated that they need a cheap, voluntary and accessible option to share sustainability data.

“The platform integrates satellite imaging technology, self-study modules and self-assessment checklists. It can help producers generate reports while ensuring users have full control over their data.

“The platform comes from a demand to make supply chain sustainability data more accessible and by making it more accessible it reduces the data burden on manufacturers.”

The Environmental Credentials platform is the latest development within MLA’s research and development (R&D) program in environmental sustainability.

MLA’s sustainability investments aim to improve the short- and long-term sustainability of the natural environment while maintaining and supporting a productive red meat industry that meets community expectations.

Successful adaptation and prosperity for Australia’s red meat and livestock industries depends on investments in the efficient and effective management of soil health, methane emissions, biodiversity and climate variability.