NEWS ARCHIVE
Carbon Footprinting report published
Dairy Co funded project demonstrates farmer's commitment to improving environmental performance.
Dairy Co's carbon footprinting report, published last week demonstrates the continued commitment of the dairy industry to improving it's environmental performance.
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 Dairy Co says "we are now able to provide the diary industry with a point of reference for the Carbon footprint of milk production from British dairy farmers, based on current industry performance. This means we can benchmark any year-on-year improvements. The 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."
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