Farmers Commit to Improving the Environment

The report, which covers the first of a three year study, actively addresses the challenges and opportunities which lie ahead, and sets an industry benchmark for carbon footprinting of dairy farms. Crucially, certification of the carbon footprint by the Carbon Trust provides confidence in the integrity of the study.

Ray Keatinge, head of research and development at DairyCo, says: “We are now able to provide the dairy industry with a point of reference for the carbon footprint of milk production from British dairy farms, based on current industry performance. This means we can benchmark any year-on-year improvements. This point of reference will also supply factual information to cross reference with other data sets being generated within the industry.”

The report shows that regardless of farming system there are opportunities for reducing carbon footprint.

Mr Keatinge continues: “These first year results highlight areas where resource use efficiency, and therefore economic performance, can be improved. Over time, the project will increase our understanding of what can be practically implemented on-farm to reduce carbon footprint, while aiming to improve farm profitability and long-term sustainability. The results of this ongoing research will provide a better understanding of how season, or changes in management practice, can impact positively or negatively on a farm’s carbon footprint.

"Focusing on more efficient use of inputs will not only help reduce costs of production, but also enhance the environmental credentials of the dairy industry, as captured in the Dairy Roadmap.”

Darran Messem, managing director of certification at the Carbon Trust, says: “Achieving certification from the Carbon Trust is proof that DairyCo is committed to taking genuine action to reduce the impact milk production in Great Britain has on climate change. This three year study will provide a robust platform to engage and inform the industry on what action it can take to manage and reduce its carbon footprint. There is little doubt that organisations with sound carbon management strategies in place stand to prosper, both now and in the future.”