Global Dairy Leaders Focus on Sustainability at 2024 World Dairy Summit
Source: DairyNews.today
The 2024 World Dairy Summit, hosted by the International Dairy Federation (IDF), has gathered industry experts, researchers, and leaders from around the world in Paris to tackle some of the most pressing issues in the dairy sector. With a primary focus on sustainability, food security, and the future of the dairy industry, the summit has already seen a high level of engagement and participation.
The four-day event kicked off on Tuesday, highlighting topics such as green innovation and sustainable production. One of the anticipated highlights is the IDF Dairy Innovation Awards, set to take place on Friday. Leading the nominations, China’s Yili Group stands out with four entries, two of which emphasize sustainability and green innovation—further solidifying Yili’s position as a leader in sustainable practices within the dairy sector.
As the only Asian company at this year’s summit, Yili has showcased a wide range of dairy products, including liquid milk, milk powder, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. Their innovative and environmentally conscious offerings have drawn considerable interest from attendees, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainable development.
Newly appointed IDF President Gilles Froment, who also serves as head of the Canadian Dairy Association, shared his reflections on the industry’s evolution. Recalling his first summit in Paris over two decades ago, he noted the stark shift in focus: “Twenty years ago, sustainability and social acceptance were rarely discussed. Today, these topics are central to every conversation, underscoring how much the industry has progressed.”
Froment emphasized the importance of aligning dairy production with global sustainability goals, stating, “Dairy is not an obstacle to sustainable development but a crucial element in combating climate change, supporting nutrition, and addressing environmental concerns.”
Yili Group’s continued success at the summit has been praised, particularly for its strides in sustainable practices. “Chinese companies like Yili have made remarkable advancements in sustainability, reflecting significant investment and progress,” Froment remarked. Yili's commitment to innovation has been well recognized, with past awards in 2022 and 2023, further establishing its role as a leader in the dairy industry.
Yun Zhanyou, an IDF board member and senior expert at Yili, spoke to the growing global influence of China’s dairy industry. “The transition from learners to active contributors—and now leaders in establishing certain standards—demonstrates the rapid development of China’s dairy sector,” he stated, underscoring the global recognition Yili has garnered through its ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation.
With the IDF Dairy Innovation Awards approaching, the 2024 World Dairy Summit promises to continue fostering meaningful discussions and partnerships. As dairy companies worldwide strive to balance production with environmental stewardship, leaders in the industry remain focused on driving innovation and setting new standards for sustainable practices.
As the only Asian company at this year’s summit, Yili has showcased a wide range of dairy products, including liquid milk, milk powder, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. Their innovative and environmentally conscious offerings have drawn considerable interest from attendees, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainable development.
Newly appointed IDF President Gilles Froment, who also serves as head of the Canadian Dairy Association, shared his reflections on the industry’s evolution. Recalling his first summit in Paris over two decades ago, he noted the stark shift in focus: “Twenty years ago, sustainability and social acceptance were rarely discussed. Today, these topics are central to every conversation, underscoring how much the industry has progressed.”
Froment emphasized the importance of aligning dairy production with global sustainability goals, stating, “Dairy is not an obstacle to sustainable development but a crucial element in combating climate change, supporting nutrition, and addressing environmental concerns.”
Yili Group’s continued success at the summit has been praised, particularly for its strides in sustainable practices. “Chinese companies like Yili have made remarkable advancements in sustainability, reflecting significant investment and progress,” Froment remarked. Yili's commitment to innovation has been well recognized, with past awards in 2022 and 2023, further establishing its role as a leader in the dairy industry.
Yun Zhanyou, an IDF board member and senior expert at Yili, spoke to the growing global influence of China’s dairy industry. “The transition from learners to active contributors—and now leaders in establishing certain standards—demonstrates the rapid development of China’s dairy sector,” he stated, underscoring the global recognition Yili has garnered through its ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation.
With the IDF Dairy Innovation Awards approaching, the 2024 World Dairy Summit promises to continue fostering meaningful discussions and partnerships. As dairy companies worldwide strive to balance production with environmental stewardship, leaders in the industry remain focused on driving innovation and setting new standards for sustainable practices.
