Tesco, in collaboration with its milk suppliers Arla and Müller, has initiated a groundbreaking partnership aimed at reducing on-farm emissions.
The Future Dairy Partnership is set to be a transformative force in the dairy industry, focusing on sustainability as its core objective. Tesco and its partners are committed to a bold goal of reducing on-farm emissions by an impressive 30% by the year 2030. This ambitious target will involve the active participation of all 400 farmers within Tesco’s Sustainable Dairy Group spread across the United Kingdom.
Building on the existing framework of the TSDG, which benefits from the expertise of the Arla and Müller milk pool, the partnership aims to foster collaboration and innovation. The two milk processors have pledged to work in unison, sharing knowledge and best practices to accelerate the reduction of emissions.
Part of the partnership’s strategy includes pioneering projects to reduce methane emissions through innovative feed additives. Moreover, it plans to explore additional methods by establishing a dedicated farmer focus group and generating industry reports. A sustainable dairy blueprint will be developed to provide farmers with clear guidance on meeting sustainability targets and adhering to ethical practices.
Tesco’s chief commercial officer Ashwin Prasad highlighted the importance of this collaboration, acknowledging the significant steps that have already been taken towards a low carbon agriculture sector. He stated, ‘We’ve been playing a leading role in transitioning to a low carbon agriculture sector for some time.’ Prasad further elaborated on the initiatives led by the group, which include advancements in animal welfare and carbon footprinting, alongside introducing innovative solutions like methane-reducing additives.
Prasad emphasised the importance of collaboration and speed in achieving these environmental goals. His words underscore the industry’s need to unite and implement these changes promptly, ensuring that farmers remain integral to this sustainable transition. ‘It’s critical we continue to ensure farmers play a pivotal role in this work,’ he remarked.
The Future Dairy Partnership represents a significant stride towards a more sustainable approach in the dairy sector. By engaging 400 farmers and leveraging innovative practices, this initiative signals a promising shift in agricultural Carbon reduction efforts.
