New York’s Democratic Attorney General, Letitia James, has recently initiated legal action against JBS USA, alleging that the company has not fulfilled its commitment to achieving “Net Zero” emissions. The prosecutor, known for her efforts against former President Trump, accuses JBS, the largest beef producer globally, of contributing to the problem of global greenhouse gas emissions, which adversely affects families dealing with the ongoing climate crisis.
In her statement, James strongly criticizes the agriculture industry and asserts that beef production has the most significant greenhouse gas footprint among major food commodities. Additionally, the Attorney General claims that animal agriculture is responsible for 14.5% of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions.
James contends that JBS is failing to meet the “Net Zero” targets set for 2030 and 2040. Interestingly, she acknowledges the challenges faced by JBS in achieving these goals due to the extensive scale of its beef production operations worldwide:
“As families continue to face the daily impacts of the climate crisis, they are willing to spend more of their hard-earned money on products from brands that are better for the environment,” James said in a statement.
“When companies falsely advertise their commitment to sustainability, they are misleading consumers and endangering our planet.”
“JBS USA’s greenwashing exploits the pocketbooks of everyday Americans and the promise of a healthy planet for future generations,” she added.
“My office will always ensure that companies do not abuse the environment and the trust of hardworking consumers for profit.”
The legal action received praise from state Democrats and prominent environmental organizations such as Earthjustice, Mighty Earth, Friends of the Earth US, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and Stand Earth.
“While it is critical for every company to reduce its climate change impact, JBS would need to implement enormous operational changes to achieve this goal.
“However, JBS is doing very little and is not taking anywhere close to the steps that would be required.”
In her declaration and legal action, James highlighted multiple occurrences where JBS and its executives made commitments to diminish the company’s ecological footprint. Furthermore, she affirmed that the company has recognized the growing concern among consumers regarding sustainable products.
“JBS takes its commitment to a more sustainable future for agriculture very seriously,” JBS spokesperson Nikki Richardson said statement.
“We disagree with the action taken today by the New York Attorney General’s office.”
“JBS will continue to partner with farmers, ranchers, and our food system partners around the world to help feed a growing population while using fewer resources and reducing agriculture’s environmental impact,” she continued.
“Our belief that American agriculture can help sustainably feed the world is undeterred.”
So what law have they broken?? She needs to reined in now!!