Our Environment

Biodiversity

(GRI 2-23, 304-3)

Ecosystem services such as soil fertility, water regulation, pollination, and pest control are essential for maintaining productive supply chains. In line with our Global Environment and Biodiversity Policy, JBS works to protect and restore natural habitats, preserve biodiversity, and amplify the positive environmental impacts of agricultural systems. Safeguarding biodiversity is not only critical for the planet but also vital for the long-term success of our business and future generations.

Promoting Compliance and Accountability

JBS operations adhere to formal environmental licensing processes issued by the appropriate governing bodies across federal, state and municipal jurisdictions. These licenses are tailored to local biodiversity conditions and include specific requirements for water and energy management, GHG emissions, and monitoring of local flora and fauna.

Within our supply chain, JBS conducts socio-environmental monitoring of a portion of farms supplying livestock. This process evaluates key criteria that impact biodiversity, such as deforestation, encroachment on protected areas (e.g., conservation units, indigenous lands), and overlap with traditional community territories. Farms that fail to meet these socio-environmental standards are blocked from conducting business with JBS.

Case Studies:

In Burraboi, New South Wales, JBS Australia has taken significant steps to protect native wetlands surrounding its Yambinya Feedlot, which specializes in finishing beef and lamb on JBS Farm Assured Natural Grain and Grass. By blocking off and conserving wetland areas, JBS has promoted the health of local waterways, supported biodiversity, and fostered the formation of a natural creek that connects to the wider basin.

This initiative not only preserves critical habitats but also creates a closed-loop system: runoff water from the wetlands flows into settling ponds at the feedlot, where it is reused to irrigate crops that are transformed into animal feed. This innovative approach supports biodiversity while enhancing resource efficiency within the JBS Farm Assurance Natural Grain program.

JBS Canada employs proactive strategies to minimize impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, and natural habitats surrounding its operations. Guided by Environmental Impact Assessments under Alberta’s Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA), JBS Canada conducts habitat surveys to identify sensitive species and ecosystems near facilities. Voluntary Biodiversity Action Plans are implemented to protect local flora and fauna, while risks to wetlands and grasslands are assessed to mitigate potential impacts from wastewater discharge.

To enhance biodiversity conservation, JBS Canada maintains buffer zones with natural vegetation around its facilities to support wildlife habitats. Key biodiversity metrics—such as water quality, habitat preservation, and species protection—are tracked through EMS. Regular audits and wastewater testing monitors compliance with regulatory limits under the EPEA and the Species at Risk Act. Air emissions monitoring, waste reduction initiatives, and improved byproduct utilization are integrated into environmental dashboards to drive continuous improvement.

JBS supports the Antenas do Pantanal project, a collaborative initiative that protects the Pantanal biome and its communities from wildfires. Launched in 2022, the project combines technology, community engagement, and coordination among various public and private stakeholders.

Since its inception, it has monitored 2.5 million hectares through 11 active surveillance towers, directly benefiting institutions such as the Instituto Homem Pantaneiro (IHP), Sesc Pantanal, and IBAMA-Prevfogo. Through Pantera—a wildfire management platform that uses artificial intelligence, computer vision, satellites, and fire propagation models—fire outbreaks can be detected within seconds, enabling a swift and well-coordinated response. The platform goes beyond detection, offering modules for prevention, response, operational reporting, resource tracking, impact analysis, and biodiversity monitoring.

Key 2024 Results:

Total fire outbreaks detected: 52,083; Most affected regions: Serra do Amolar, RPPN Acurizal, São Lourenço, and Barra
Average time of direct firefighting operations: 31 days of intensive action