This results in the loss of trees and habitat, as well as many different species of plants, animals, and insects. Cattle ranching also affects North American land because it has a huge impact on soil erosion. Around 30 percent of our farmland is used as pasture for cattle. In Canada alone, the amount of soil the prairies lose each year due to wind and water erosion is 305 million tonnes. Without access to this government land that has been clearcut, the head of BC's Cattleman's Association says there would be no beef industry in this province.
Energy is required throughout the meat production process.
According to a 1992 study by Alberta Agriculture, meat production requires, on average, 10-20 times more energy per edible tonne than grain production. In other words, per unit of energy input, many more people can be fed with grain than with meat. Aside from the packaging, you would think that eating meat does not create all that much waste. However, livestock accounts for most of Canada's raw sewage pollution. According to Environment Canada, about 40 kg of manure are produced for each kilogram of edible beef that is eventually brought to market.