Organic Eggs May Have Worse Climate Impacts Than Caged Eggs, Oxford Study Finds

A study from researchers associated with the University of Oxford found that organic free-range eggs can have a worse climate impact than eggs from caged hens. Using UK farm data, the authors modeled an industry shift to fully organic free-range production while keeping egg output constant. They estimated emissions could rise by about 60% and land use could nearly double because organic systems typically require more hens, higher feed inputs, and deliver lower productivity. The researchers say the findings highlight key trade-offs between animal welfare and environmental outcomes.