Restaurant chain McDonald's has long been the poster company for unhealthy fast food. Recently, the corporation has been trying to change its image, including announcing plans to start using "sustainable beef." In reality, however, the company's sustainable meat plan will likely be anything but.
McDonald's has been working with a group called "the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef" to come up with specifics about its initiative. But the GSRB only includes two representatives from environmental groups; most of its executive committee is from the meat industry. Probably as a result, the GSRB's plan includes no specifics on cutting down antibiotics, combating climate change or improving grazing policies. Without enforceable rules, the plan is just another halfhearted maneuver to try to make McDonald's look better to increasingly environmentally conscious customers.
An industry leader's transition to sustainable beef could open the door to change in food-service culture. Now is McDonald's chance to define standards for sustainable beef and set the precedent for using it in their products. Sign this petition urging McDonald's to set a real, clear standard for sustainable beef, and encourage all fast food companies to adopt similar sustainable beef policies!
Fast Food Restaurant CEOs—
We the undersigned urge McDonald's to clearly define standards for sustainable beef in their meals, and make the change as soon as possible! We also urge other fast food companies to follow their example and begin purchasing sustainable beef.
Sincerely,
