Frequently Asked Question
Land UseMain drivers of deforestation
Last reviewed: January 9, 2026
Summary
In several regions, cattle ranching and animal feed crops are significant drivers of deforestation and land conversion. The relative contribution varies by country and commodity, but livestock-related demand is repeatedly implicated in deforestation-linked supply chains.
Evidence Summary
- Trade-embedded deforestation analyses attribute significant shares to beef/leather and feed commodities. Evidence quality: Moderate–High Limitations / nuance: Deforestation is multi-causal; governance and land rights are major mediators. Bottom line: Animal agriculture is a major deforestation-linked demand driver in many contexts.
Supporting Evidence
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