Are we better off in a world without cows?

With unique access to those on the frontlines of agriculture and science, two filmmakers set out on an incredible journey around the world to find the answer to this seemingly simple question. Through conversations with farmers, ranchers, scientists and other experts in environmental and agricultural science, Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth examined the true impact of cows on our world: their cultural and economic significance, their role in nourishing the world and their impact on climate. What they found was far from simple: When it comes to cows, it’s not black and white.

From the makers of World Without Cows, our companion mini-documentaries take the journey further. From the ranches of Brazil to the pastures of Ireland, explore what's shaping the global food conversation.

About

A thought-provoking documentary about the cultural, economic, nutritional and environmental significance of cows

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EXPLORE

Dig deeper into the cultural and economic significance of cows, their role in feeding the world and their impact on climate

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One farm, 100+ cows and a commitment to telling Ireland’s dairy story

How third-generation Irish dairy farmer Niall Moore is farming for the next generation

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Built on grass: How Ireland’s pasture-based dairy system became a global model

From bog butter to global export powerhouse

Cattle grazing in a pasture, representing methane emissions from livestock and the role of global warming potential metrics like GWP100 and GWP* in climate measurement.

Cattle, greenhouse gases and the case for better methane metrics

Why the global warming potential of methane emissions from cattle production needs a closer look

A white Nelore cow with an ear tag stands against a bright sky in rural Brazil, representing the country’s cattle sector and its role in sustainable, climate-smart food production.

Can COP30 change the future of cows and climate in Brazil?

At COP30, the world’s eyes are on Brazil, and the cattle ranchers leading a global transformation.

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Can Brazil save the Amazon and produce enough beef to feed the world?

Restoring 40 million hectares of pasture could feed billions and ease pressure on the Amazon. Is the world paying attention?

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Food or forest?

New mini-doc explores deforestation, food security and the Brazilian cattle sector’s path to a more sustainable future

GET involved

Ahead of the global release of the film’s final cut, we are building a network of dedicated partners who are ready to activate in their communities and drive World Without Cows forward. Want to host an early public screening before the film begins streaming globally midyear? Complete the form to be part of the first 1,000.