Finding new ways to reduce the impact on the environment, manage resources efficiently and increase benefits to biodiversity and bioeconomy is a crucial part of the commitment made by the dairy sector for continuous improvement, the IDF said.
The free publication, which can be downloaded from the IDF website, showcases ongoing activities and the latest initiatives to ensure sustainable dairy, including new approaches to agriculture, quality education, improved milk quality, development of rural areas through dairying, strong international cooperation and climate commitment achievements.
Case studies in the new edition include sustainability knowledge transfer between Denmark and China; how the Milky Way Partnership is helping deliver on the UN’s sustainable development goals; how Israeli dairy experts are transforming the dairy sector in the Atlántico Departmental region in Colombia; and how the Russian dairy sector is making rural areas attractive places to live as well as for young people to start families.
A case study in India shows how the establishment of an efficient manure value chain can provide fuel needs and provide a stable income for dairy farmers. In Brazil, anaerobic bio-digestion of livestock manure is shown to produce clean energy and reduce soil and water contamination, while in Sweden, the report loThe latesoks at the largest single undertaking to reduce losses of nutrients to air and water from livestock and crop production.
The 3rd edition also provides an example of how COVID-19 has impacted the dairy sector and outlines the measures taken in France to maintain the activity of the sector.
IDF director general Caroline Emond said, “Sustainable development is a collective effort that depends on collaboration between governments, international organizations, and the private sectors, along with individuals. The IDF recognizes the challenges and opportunities and is committed to contributing relevant scientific information and good practice to the discussion. This new edition is a valuable continuation of the series and provides an insight into the contribution of milk production, processing, and consumption to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals.”