Meet the SSG: Paul McDougall

Caption: Paul McDougall has joined the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework’s Steering Group.

The newest member of the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) Steering Group is no stranger to the importance of sustainability in the beef industry. Paul McDougall brings years of experience in environmental management and a deep understanding of agriculture to his new role.

No stranger to sustainability

Paul began his career as an environmental consultant, focusing on contaminated lands and natural resources. The appeal of the agricultural industry was a natural one.

“I just found myself naturally drawn to the agricultural and natural resource management side of things, and eventually moved from Sydney to Orange.”

Still based in Orange, Paul has worked at ‘Paraway Pastoral Company’ since 2018, where he is Manager – Natural Capital.

He says the ABSF has been a helpful tool in guiding his work at Paraway, reinforcing that the business is focused on the right priorities and moving in the right direction.

“Having something credible, based on real data and available for anyone to view is such a powerful tool,” he said.

Paul sees the ABSF as an essential resource for a broad range of stakeholders.

“It is a go-to guide for anyone, whether you are a politician, producer or exporter. It is evidence of the great work the Australian Beef industry is doing to be more sustainable.”

It’s all about balance

Although sustainability can be complex, for Paul, it’s all about balance, keeping in mind that what’s sustainable at one location may not be sustainable in another.

“For me, there is a risk that sustainability is simplified to the point where it is meaningless. It’s important to acknowledge the complexity and that there are a lot of factors that contribute to it.”

He believes sustainability must account for multiple dimensions.

“You’ve got to be profitable, you’ve got to look after the environment, your community and society, to ensure your future ability to be profitable.”

An opportunity to share what’s happening in Industry

With so much happening in the industry, Paul sees his role on the SG as a chance to connect the dots and improve communication.

“I think being a part of the Steering Group will allow me the opportunity to help get everyone together and on the same page, promoting all the good things we are doing, but also what we are still learning.

“Being able to collect data about what sustainability issues are important to producers and other stakeholders and then being able to effectively communicate them to the rest of the society is important for the continual growth of the industry.”

Paul emphasised how much is happening in the industry and the role that the ABSF can play in communicating all of it.

“There is so much happening, and producers are always busy and naturally tend to be independent people.

“Having the ABSF allows for all the information to come together in the one spot and to be communicated for the benefit of the whole industry.”