‘World Without Cows’ documentary explores cattle’s impact on food, climate and the environment

The film follows two filmmakers across 22 countries to examine how cows affect nutrition, agriculture, soil health and the future of the planet.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — What would the world look like without cows?

A new documentary, World Without Cows, explores that question, examining the role cattle play in feeding a growing global population and the complex relationship between livestock, agriculture and the environment.

Directed by journalists and filmmakers Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth, the film follows a five-year investigation spanning 22 countries and five continents. The filmmakers speak with farmers, ranchers, scientists and environmental experts to understand how cattle affect food systems, local economies and ecosystems. <Cite refs={["turn269658search1","turn269658search7"]}/>

“When cows are managed properly, they can really play a vital role in both the health of people on this planet and the health of our planet,” Whitworth said.

Examining cattle’s role in food production

The documentary explores the challenge of providing adequate nutrition for a growing global population while protecting the natural resources needed to produce food.

Cattle provide sources of protein through beef and dairy products, while their role in agriculture can vary depending on how and where they are raised.

Whitworth said the filmmakers wanted audiences to gain a broader understanding of the food systems that support communities around the world.

The film also examines cattle’s relationship with soil health and biodiversity, alongside their environmental impacts.

Cattle produce methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. The documentary considers that challenge while exploring how livestock management and different agricultural practices can affect the land.

‘It’s not the cow, it’s the how’

For Michael, the findings point to the importance of considering different approaches to food production rather than relying on one solution.

“I think what we learned is it's going to take the best of all of the systems that we have to feed the population into the future,” Michael said. “And I think, you know, often we like to say it's not the cow, it's the how. It's going to be properly managed cows that are going to move the needle and get us into the future.”

The filmmakers say their goal is to encourage a more informed conversation about how food is produced and how communities can balance nutrition, environmental concerns and agricultural needs.

Where to watch ‘World Without Cows’ in Santa Barbara

World Without Cows is part of a theatrical screening tour that includes Santa Barbara.

The film is scheduled to screen at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival Film Center, located at 916 State Street. Upcoming showtimes include October 17 at 5:20 p.m., October 18 at 2:50 p.m. and 7:20 p.m., and October 19 at 5:20 p.m. 

For tickets and additional screening information, visit the official World Without Cows website.