For decades, environmentalists have viewed livestock, particularly cattle, as detrimental to the environment, citing their role in soil erosion, air and water pollution, and wildlife decline. This perspective was reinforced by a 2007 UN report labeling livestock as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. However, in this revised edition, environmental lawyer and rancher Nicolette Hahn Niman challenges this narrative, arguing that cattle can be beneficial to the earth when managed properly. Grazing can positively impact grassland ecosystems, mimicking the roles of natural herbivores. The discussions surrounding health, diet, climate, and farming—especially regarding cattle—are more relevant than ever, yet much of the media coverage lacks depth and nuance, often presenting oversimplified solutions to complex problems. Niman critiques the notion that reducing meat consumption is the best way to combat climate change, sharing her own journey from vegetarianism to omnivorism for health reasons. This edition also addresses the rise of "fake meat," including processed plant-based foods and lab-grown meat. Through her personal narrative and advocacy for animal welfare and sound science, Niman illustrates how small-scale, grass-based farms can form the backbone of sustainable American food production.
