DairyCo

British dairy farmers rise to the environmental challenge

Published 12 August 09

A recent survey of dairy farmers carried out by DairyCo showed 73% had changed the management of clean water on their farms in the last 24 months. A high percentage (79%) regularly check their farm water points for leaks.

The 'Milk Roadmap: One year down the road' report, details the joined-up approach made by the industry to further reduce the impact of dairy farming on the environment. Dr Karen Wonnacott, R & D Manager from DairyCo says: "Farmers have done this through a combination of improved efficiency as well as adapting their practices to acknowledge the importance of the environment."

Environmental concerns are clearly moving further up the agenda with consumers. Findings from a survey that tracks consumers attitudes to dairy2, jointly funded by DairyCo and The Dairy Council, stated that approximately 86% of respondents supported the use of new technologies in dairy production if they protected the environment.

This is addressed by a target laid out in the Milk Roadmap which states that 20-30% of producers should be trialling new technologies to reduce emissions from agriculture. One year ahead of schedule 32% of dairy farmers surveyed are already doing this.

Amanda Ball, who leads the DairyCo Image Management team, responsible for promoting dairy farming to consumers says: "I am delighted that we have a good news story to tell. The dairy industry needs good examples such as those detailed in the Milk Roadmap to highlight the positive attitudes of British dairy farmers.