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JBS Initiates Major Livestock Traceability Project in Pará

In a bold move aimed at revolutionizing livestock tracking in Brazil, JBS has recently announced a donation of 3 million cattle tags in partnership with various key stakeholders. The initiative intends to significantly enhance cattle traceability in the Pará region, home to Brazil's second-largest cattle population. This program, developed as part of a broader strategy to support local farmers, seeks to ensure that every head of cattle in the state can be accurately monitored by the end of 2026.

The announcement was made during a roundtable discussion at the World Economic Forum held in Davos, titled "From Davos to Belém: Defining Brazil's Path to a Sustainable, Low-Carbon Cattle Industry.” The initiative is part of a collaborative effort involving government bodies, producers, civil society, and industry leaders, marking significant progress toward establishing a sustainable cattle industry in Brazil. Gilberto Tomazoni, CEO of JBS Global, highlighted the shared responsibility among various stakeholders, stating, "Together, we are agents of transformation in the supply chain."

Out of the 3 million tags, an impressive 2 million are specifically earmarked for small producers, addressing half of their projected needs for the year 2025 in the region. The distribution of these tags is being facilitated through a partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), which is utilizing funds from the Bezos Earth Fund pledged during COP28 to help implement the program. The remaining tags are being provided directly by JBS.

In preparation for this initiative, JBS conducted a pilot tagging program in 2024, marking 28,000 head of cattle at their facilities in Marabá and Redenção. This pilot project not only evaluated the technology involved but also ensured compliance with animal transit requirements established by the working group. The valuable insights gained from this initial phase are being shared with coalition partners to support the large-scale rollout of the tagging program.

The Importance of Traceability

Livestock traceability is crucial for several reasons. It enhances food safety, improves disease control measures, and fosters better management practices among farmers. In Brazil, where cattle farming plays a significant economic role, ensuring that livestock can be tracked throughout the supply chain will bolster consumer confidence and promote responsible farming practices.

Furthermore, the implementation of this tagging system aligns with Brazil's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By tracking cattle more effectively, farmers can manage their herds better, reduce waste, and minimize their environmental footprint.

Future Prospects

The future of cattle management in Pará looks bright, with JBS leading the charge in developing innovative strategies to enhance traceability. As the company continues its efforts, the ramifications of this project will likely extend beyond Pará, influencing cattle management practices throughout Brazil and potentially setting a standard for livestock traceability worldwide.

As these initiatives unfold, JBS aims to establish itself not just as a leader in the food production sector but also as a pioneer in sustainable agricultural practices. For more updates and information, you can follow the latest news from JBS on their official press room.

To sum up, the comprehensive approach taken by JBS in donating these cattle tags represents a significant leap toward a more sustainable and traceable cattle industry in Brazil. With widespread support from various stakeholders and a commitment to innovative practices, the prospects for the livestock sector in Pará are more promising than ever.