Evaluating the Carbon and Water Footprints of Livestock Transportation in Japan

This study investigates the environmental impact of rising meat consumption in Japan, focusing on water and carbon footprints associated with livestock production and transportation. We quantify the water footprint of beef cattle and swine, differentiating between direct water use (drinking and service water) and indirect water use (feed production). Our findings reveal a significant contribution of indirect water use to the overall water footprint, with 15,090.3 m3/ton for beef and 4398.6 m3/ton for swine, primarily attributed to feed crop production. These results are consistent with previous studies, with minor variations. Furthermore, we simulate transportation scenarios for beef and pork products, considering both road and rail transport. This analysis encompasses key parameters such as transportation volume, direct and indirect water use, CO2 emissions, and fuel consumption. By evaluating the environmental implications of both livestock farming and product transportation, this study provides valuable insights for sustainable practices and informed policy development in Japan’s specific context. Our research contributes to a nuanced understanding of water use patterns in livestock production by distinguishing between direct and indirect water footprints. The integration of transportation simulations further enhances the scope of the study, offering a holistic perspective on the interconnectedness of meat production and distribution. This comprehensive approach aims to support informed decision-making processes in sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and policy development within Japan’s unique context.