UK Dairy Farmers Invited to Shape Future Sustainability Targets

The Dairy Roadmap, an initiative established in 2008, is seeking input from UK dairy farmers on future sustainability targets. This initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of milk production.

Since its inception, the Dairy Roadmap has achieved several milestones, including reducing the average age at first calving by more than 30 days since 2018. Additionally, it has driven a shift towards renewable energy, with 40% of energy used on dairy farms now coming from renewable sources.

The initiative encourages approximately 80% of dairy farmers to calculate their carbon footprint. Current targets include biennial soil testing, triennial carbon footprint measurements, and mandatory low-emission slurry spreading techniques by 2027.

Farmers are being urged to provide feedback on practical future environmental actions and potential cost implications. In-person events have begun in England and Wales, with an event scheduled in Scotland on 13 November. Online workshops will be held on 21 and 25 November to gather broader input.

Bas Padberg, chairman of the Dairy Roadmap, emphasized the importance of farmer input, stating, "This is the moment for farmers to make their voices heard." Responses will inform the Sustainable Pathways Report, which will be published next year and will guide new industry targets.