Review of National Cattlemen’s Association's Historical Climate Messaging

A review of documents from 1986 to 1996 found that the National Cattlemen’s Association (NCA) was aware of the beef industry’s contribution to global warming as a major source of methane and knew methods to reduce livestock emissions. Instead of addressing these concerns, the association launched a long-term campaign to question the science and influence public opinion with strategic messaging about the cattle industry’s environmental contributions.

The findings show that NCA responded to rising global warming concerns by engaging in a strategic communications effort designed to deny or question the role of beef production in climate change. This historical response relates to the industry’s relationship with environmental regulation and public perception.